I was so excited to get a copy of the new Sam Abernathy book, and it was a blast spending time with Sam, Karim, and Bahar. I sure missed James Jenkins, though, and I didn’t think this one was quite as funny as the first. I still laughed out loud a lot, and it was very moving and sweet. If there’s ever another book featuring this character, I will definitely read it.

I’m incredibly biased when it comes to books by Andrew Smith. I had the opportunity to meet him a few years ago (out of the kindness of his heart, we had a three hour coffee house chat) as well as attend a couple of his author events. I think, at this point, I have read every single one of his books (minus one short story collection he’s featured in). I am touched to be able to review his newest book - Bye, Bye Blue Creek!
This newest book is a continuation of Sam Abernathy’s pre-Stand Off middle grade adventures that started with The Size of the Truth (2019; you can read my review here). Sam is a few weeks away from heading off to Pine Mountain, where he will be a twelve-year-old freshman (the horror) away from his family (the freedom and terror). However, he has to find a way to say good-bye to his friends, come to terms with his claustrophobia, and handle the creepy new family that moved into Blue Creek’s infamous haunted house! What kind of shenanigans will he get into before he’s off to school!?
If you read my review for The Size of the Truth then you’ll see similar feelings reflected in this review. Abernathy is adorably naive, yet also sophisticated for a twelve-year-old. He has high hopes, big dreams, and wants to break out of the expectations people have put upon him. Can’t we all relate similarly on a base level? Sam continues to show us how wonderful it is to grow up and discover while simultaneously having fun, learning new skills, and ultimately, standing up for oneself in times of change.
If you’re in the mood for some hilariously weird growing up stories, check out the Sam Abernathy series. They both have received 4-out-of-5 Awesome Austin Points and will leave your heart warm with their innocence, humor, and ultimate truths about life. Bye, Bye Blue Creek comes out on October 13, 2020 so watch out for it at your local bookstores!