Anita Daher

I wanted more action to happen when Eugenia Grimm was away at the ranch program. That’s the only thing that stopped me from giving it a perfect score. Enjoyed it very much. Couldn’t help thinking it was like a more grown up version of Eric Waters’ book STARS. Eugenia chooses a ranch program over jail thinking how hard could it be? Well, she’s going to find out

Two Foot Punch is an exciting, well contained adventure for a reluctant reader,who likes a fast moving plot. The action packed scenes and honestly displayed emotions of the main character Nikki will appeal to many a high interest low level reader. When looking for Rain one morning , a gymnast and her new parkour running partner, she says, ""At the river's edge I see a lean figure standing in a patch of clover outside the labyrinth, glowing in the morning sun. Rain is the sun. I smile." These show more simple, clear proses gives the reader a sense of Nikki's new found happiness and a mean to identify with her and cheer her on.objects/obstacles in between to move forward. Her deep love for her older brother Derek, transcends his self-destructive behavior is often reiterated, not to belabor the point, but to confirm the emotion.

Though still recovering from the tragic accident that killed her parents, Nikki, as written by Anita Daher, is aware of her feelings and works them out through her love of parkour, where one runs from place to place by using the objects/obstacles in between to move forward. The plot of
Derek's possible involvement with a band of criminals moves as quickly along as Nikki's running through the street of historic downtown Winnipeg. The use of the sports motif is one which will draw in both male and female readers. The positive message of how physical activity , group sports, can free one of mental anguish is a welcome and encouraging one for students depressed over varying family issues. show less

At one hundred twenty two pages long, this book is a suitable read for students in grade 3-5 without being intimidating. Main character Colly is likeable and kids will be drawn to the hook author Anita Daher uses at the end of the short chapters. Students are also indirectly introduced to some geography and the culture of the Arctic. Although somewhat predictable this second in a series will be appealing to students in this age group who tend to like series.

An intense story with a prickly yet sensitive main character and the added feature of a lesson for parents. I enjoyed it. Full review: http://www.canadianauthors.net/d/daher_anita/spiders_song.php