NetGalley Review: Mary Underwater by Shannon Doleski

Middle grade books are such a hard genre to fill.  Reading levels vary so much in those nebulous years between learning to read and getting into "literature" and analysis. Interests also vary across kids, so it can be hard to write a cohesive tale that encompasses enough sub-genres to get middle-grade, often reluctant, readers coming back.  A book such as Mary Underwater by Shannon Doleski makes meeting these needs look easy.   

A fantastic middle grade book that captures the imagination and tackles big issues.  This beautifully written book will transport you right to the little seaside town where big things are happening to young Mary.  The story melds, teen friendships, STEM, family dynamics and even a little romance, into a truly heartwarming tale of a young woman finding herself and striking out to make her place in the world.

I really enjoyed how this book tackled complicated family issues, especially the issue of Mary’s abusive father.  The book doesn't mince words about how the cycle of abuse works, but still keeps the tale safely appropriate for middle grades.  This same delicate hand is applied to other issues that face the teenage characters. Losing and mending friendships, budding romance and challenging families are deftly presented.  A very age-appropriate taste of the world for young readers. The additional Joan of Arc backstory offers insightful parallels to Mary’s life and really helps frame this coming of age story.  A middle grade book with this level of wide appeal is always a wonderful find, this one would be a great addition to any collection.