We’re delighted to be saying Happy Book Birthday to Pat Schmatz! In her latest novel, THE KEY TO EVERY THING, published by Candlewick Press, Pat Schmatz introduces readers to a tenacious, fiercely loyal girl struggling to let go of the fantasies and fears of her childhood . . . and say yes to everything that lies ahead. This middle grade novel is emotionally true, incredibly moving and a literary tour de force. Pat Schmatz is the author of the critically acclaimed Bluefish as well as Lizard Radio, which won the James Tiptree, Jr. Literary Award for exploring and expanding the understanding of gender. Pat Schmatz lives in Minneapolis.
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Advance Praise
“The novel will take some readers outside their comfort zones, into the sometimes scary arena of health care facilities and the never-easy subject of death. But the strong presentation of Tash’s viewpoint is reassuring, and so is the straightforward depiction of her discomfort, anger, jealousy, remorse, reconciliation, and sadness. A simply written, emotionally resonant narrative.” —Booklist, starred review
“The author skilfully creates empathy for the prickly Tash, a complex and challenging character…Readers will relate to Tash’s grit in finding a way to deal with life when it doesn’t go to plan.” —BayViews
“Traumatized by past neglect at the hands of an alcoholic parent, an ‘almost-sixth-grader’ faces her phobia of being alone after her elderly friend is injured…Tash’s volatile emotions and Kevin’s gentle steadiness ring true, adding dimension to the tear-jerking trope…A bittersweet but hopeful take on loss, trauma, and the many meanings of family.
—Kirkus Reviews