MEANT TO BE by Jo Knowles

 

In MEANT TO BE readers are given a chance to learn more about Ivy, a quirky character from WHERE THE HEART IS. Ivy takes on the role of main character in this latest novel by Jo Knowles.

After finances force Ivy's family to leave their farm and move into an apartment complex, Ivy decides it might not be too bad. Sharing a room with her sister isn't exactly the greatest, but at least two new friends live right in the same building. Alice and Lucas make Ivy feel more at home than she did on the farm where she felt lonely most of the time.

Watching a cooking contest called Bake It to Make It! is a weekly event for the three new friends. After they watch the show, they try to replicate the dish and then share it with family and friends. Ivy's family enjoys the tasty pancakes she has been inspired to make while watching the show. 

Ivy also feels comfortable when she is pitching in to help the building caretaker. She changes lightbulbs, tightens nuts and bolts, and even refurbishes bicycles for the children of some of the tenants.

Just like all friendships and families, there are moments of tension that are sometimes difficult for Ivy to understand. She usually wants to talk about the conflicts, but she soon learns that sometimes staying quiet and patient is the best course.

MEANT TO BE is perfect for middle grade readers who are already Jo Knowles fans and even more perfect to create more loyal readers.