I have long been a fan of author Jordan Sonnenblick. DRUMS, GIRLS & DANGEROUS PIE is one of the first books I read aloud to my 8th graders. It convinced me of the value of sharing books aloud as a way to involve older readers. FALLING OVER SIDEWAYS, due for release in September 2016, is Sonnenblick at his best!
Claire's life isn't going like she had hoped. In band she is being hassled by Ryder. He is constantly tormenting her about her second chair seat in the saxophone section. It's almost time for seat challenges, and he dares her to try to take first chair.
Older brother Matthew has a reputation of being just about perfect. Entering eighth grade with the shadow of his straight A average is pressure she just doesn't need right now.
As a dedicated dance student, when Claire receives the news that her best friends at the dance studio are being moved up to the high school age group and she is being left behind, she is convinced that life is not fair. But all these irritating things become minor annoyances one September morning.
Claire is at the kitchen table trying to forget an argument she recently had with her father. Suddenly the table is thrust viciously in her direction. She looks up to protest just as her father slumps dramatically to his side. His face looks strange and garbled words come from his mouth. Claire knows this is a medical emergency and jumps into action. She dials 911 and soon finds herself in the front seat of an ambulance with her father strapped to a gurney in the back. What follows changes Claire's family in ways she never imagined.
Sonnenblick drama interspersed with his trademark humor will keep readers glued to FALLING OVER SIDEWAYS. Be sure to watch for this one in bookstores this fall.
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