Kirkus starred review!

It was very interesting. I absolutely loved Sugar.
The subject is difficult but author manages admirably.
Not for kids under twelve.
It's somewhat depressing. ( )

children's realistic fiction; 4th-7th grades (definitely PG). Considering how many homeless children and families are out there, it's strange that their stories so rarely get told. Sugar's story will touch your heart and (I hope) give kids something to think about as they're entering middle school (when the tendency is to pick on everyone for anything). She also demonstrates many lovely examples of handwritten thank you notes, which is always a good skill to have. ( )

This dealt with many of the same issues for the same audience as Bauer's Close to Famous, and Close to Famous was a more thoughtfully written, memorable book. I was particularly annoyed with Sugar Mae's teacher -- Sugar Mae's adoration of him was completely over the top, and he sucked as a mandatory reporter. Teachers can't just get emails from their homeless former students with mentally ill mothers and not SAY anything to anybody! ( )

I am so glad I didn't miss this one! What a story! Sugar is so full of positive energy that I wish I knew her and could help to shield her from the world. Not that she needs it, she finds strength from within. Still, she deserves to have a life with a lot less stress. Each day she tries to look for the positive and is thankful for the people who come into her life, no matter what lesson they teach her. Her dog, Shush, comes to her accidentally, but Sugar finds creative ways to take care of him. Shush sure does help those around him. I felt bad for Sugar that she had to grow up so soon. No child should know what it is like to be homeless or have to parent their parent. Her attitude inspired me. I also loved the thank you notes she wrote throughout the book. When I learned about her painting doors to make the world a brighter place- I wanted to paint my door! How fun! This is a story I recommend to kids in grades three and up. Adults will love this story, too. Without a doubt this is a book you don’t want to miss! I look forward to reading more from this author!
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