“Crenshaw” explores how one hard working family deals with the threat of homelessness through the eyes of Jackson, an ‘old soul’ fifth grader.

As a future animal scientist, Jackson relays his family’s plight in a scientific just-stating-the-facts way.

> Dad got sick and can’t work.

> Mom got laid off.

> The family hasn’t much money.

> They can’t pay their rent.

> Jackson and his younger sister are often hungry.

That’s the way things are. Those are just the facts.

Then Crenshaw, his imaginary friend from first grade, reenters Jackson’s life. Crenshaw’s appearance is NOT logical, NOT sciency, and totally NOT normal. Jackson tries to push Crenshaw away, but the endearing bubble-bath-loving cat knows he’s needed. With catlike persistence, he encourages Jackson to tell the truth to the one that matters most.

No spoilers here. So I’ll just add that Katherine Applegate does an amazing job portraying a loving ‘working poor’ family. It’s touted as a book for middle graders (ages 8 to 12), but “Crenshaw” is both heart felt and heart wrenching and a book that everyone of all ages will enjoy.

I read “Crenshaw” when it first came out a couple of years ago. I loved it so much, I had to read it again and share it with you here.

@kaaauthor

http://katherineapplegate.com/

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If you enjoy books like CRENSHAW, you will love my book PETDEMONIUM. Click here to download the first two chapters as a free PDF.