I loved Benny and Salma and their relationship so much. The actual story dragged for me though, and I wasn't invested in the mystery. I did like the strong Newfoundland setting, since that's not something you see a lot.

4.25⭐️
This book was absolutely endearing and such a great book for our young readers to delve into. It has so much heart as well as a fun story where the reader can learn so much along with getting entertained.

Young Benny has Mosaic Downs Syndrome and you learn a bit about what that is and how to treat people properly who may learn or look a bit different from the typical. The reader can also experience the negative experience that the individual faces everyday while also witnessing all the fantastic things they can accomplish.

The book is set on Newfoundland and peppered with local words and other influences where the reader can experience a differed area than they may be used to. But also local folks will feel right at home. I will say that it is a bit of a difference experience to read to read some of these local phrases and words and it took some adjustment.to read.

Also I’ll mention that some of the language was clearly by an adult trying to sound like a young person who was a little out of touch with modern “hip” language. So to some readers they may not quite “get it” but their parents and teachers will!

I highly suggest getting this book for a 4th-6th grade classroom as it would make for some great group or individual reading. I know I’m going to purchase some copies to gift to my local elementary and middle school.

I am thankful to have gotten an eARC for free from Simon & Schuster Children’s through NetGalley to read which gave me the opportunity to voluntarily leave a review.

This book comes out April 15, 2025.

My rating system for Middle Grade and children’s books

⭐️ Significant problems and would never recommend to the audience.
⭐️⭐️ Had a lot of trouble, prose issues, really not my cup of tea but may have some appeal.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ an ok book which I wouldn’t go out of my way to recommend but it has some value for young readers
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Really enjoyed it! I would recommend for the age or reading level appropriate for the book
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Outstanding! Would recommend highly, especially to school programs as a wide spread reading opportunity.