Middle Grade Book Review – So B It

Title: So B. It

By: Sarah Weeks

Ages: 10-up

Publisher: Laura Geringer Books / HarperCollins

ISBN-10: 0-06-441047-1

ISBN-13: 978-0-06-441047-2

Published: April 2004

“So B. It” is a Parents’ Choice Gold Award Winner and will transport you into the life of Heidi.

Heidi has no idea where she was born, her birthday, her father, and how she finally got to Bernadette’s doorstep. Their new neighbor who has an “angora phobia” (which is the fear of going out) takes them in, and teaches and nurtures both mother and daughter to the best of his ability. Finding out the truth of her background is difficult due to her mother’s mental disability, which has left her with a limited vocabulary of 23 words. Even though they have no income, their rent and utility bills are mysteriously paid every month.

Heidi’s life is basically limited to the two adjoining apartments, until she gets old and can go to the store alone. For quite some time, Heidi accepts her life for what it is, but becomes curious when she discovers an old camera with an undeveloped film inside. Heidi has the film developed and discovers photos of her mother at a Christmas party at a place called Hilltop Home in Liberty, New York.

Heidi travels alone to Liberty, NY, to discover the truth of their identities. What Heidi discovers and does not discover will be heartbreaking and fascinating to any reader of this wonderfully written novel.

About the author: Sarah Weeks is a successful singer, songwriter, and author of children’s books. He goes on school visits throughout the United States, presents his books, songs and shares the creative process of writing for children. His editorial credits include more than thirty picture books and mid-grade novels.