A good middle-grade read about different kinds of students who pull together to work through difficult life situations.

Great story set in the coal county of Pennsylvania about three unlikely friends who bond during a middle school class called Intro to Clay. Told through the voices of Noah, Oscar, Riley, who all have emotional “cracks” just below the surface. From Oscar's grief after the death of his sister, to Riley's move to new at school/town after she witnesses a robbery at her mom's restaurant, and Noah's who is trying to maintain the family business since mom is barely functional after her divorce. Similar to Rob Buyea's "Mr. Terupt" series, but with more focus on the family situation of the three students rather than the dynamics of several students. I definitely recommend!
Thank you to Netgalley and Dial, and imprint of Penguin Young Readers Group for the digital arc.

In Honor of Broken Things is hands-down one of my favorite middle-grade books this year. It has heart. It has humor. And it asks readers to look beyond themselves.

I was first introduced to Paul Acampora’s writing in his 2020 novel, Danny Constantino’s First (And Maybe Last?) Date. It was a breath of fresh air.

In Honor of Broken Things features the same comforting style. You immediately feel at ease in his world, and you just want to enjoy the ride.

And enjoy the ride you will.

In Honor of Broken Things feels almost like a letter to his readers, assuring them that like his characters, broken things can be beautiful.

Each of the characters are well-developed and feel as if they’re already your friends. The pacing is strong, and though Acampora tackles difficult topics, the book never feels preachy or too easy.

In Honor of Broken Things is a quick read that you’ll want to pick up more than once. I read an e-arc and plan on purchasing a copy of my own to share with my daughter when she’s old enough.