(3) K-3 Illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff. A child narrates the coming year in moments that will remind them of a lost loved one, some seasonal (when one paper heart is missing in February), others incidental (while writing in a gratitude journal in September). The reassuring refrain “you’ll be there” punctuates the gentle, sometimes-rhyming text. Illustrations in a pastel palette keep this serious title from feeling too heavy.

Reviewer: Shoshana Flax

(2) 4-6 How does a family live with recurring cancer? Would you want to know if you had that same cancer gene? These questions anchor a powerful verse novel in which twelve-year-old Cass copes with her dad's serious illness and her mom's relentless positivity, and counts on best friend Jayla's steady support. Weaving together genetic research, homeschooling particularities, Christian religious beliefs, and baseball fundamentals, Hill's portrayal of Cass's daily life is full of detail. Her inner monologue drives the story forward; free-verse poetry in a variety of forms relies on Cass's clear first-person voice and creative spacing for effect. Cass grapples with the decision of whether to be tested for the gene. Does she want to know the worst (or best) or does she want to live her life in fear and worry about the unknown? Her situation raises existential questions in ways that are palpable and relevant. Hill delicately balances deep sadness with genuine hopefulness in this distinctive and compelling novel.

Reviewer: | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2023

(4) 4-6 Kate stopped playing music when her depressed father walked out on them; meanwhile, Grammy, who has Alzheimer's, has moved in with Kate and her mom, and Kate's best friend has abandoned her. The "magic" of the title is simply the importance of giving without expectations. Despite a contrived plot, the realistic depiction of a parent with severe depression fills a gap in middle-grade shelves.

Reviewer: Amy Seto Forrester