Bluefish

Though this was written about eighth graders, I found the style to be delightful and the characters compelling.

The story was mostly written from a third person omniscient point of view from Travis's perspective, but every chapter had something from Velveeta's perspective. This worked quite quaintly. The sections were short enough that they didn't hinder. Velveeta's voice was so, well, Velveeta, and it really helped to build up her character.

I felt at points that the characters were a little too mature for eighth graders, but then I realized that I was wrong and that yes, in eighth grade it really is important who one goes to the dance with. Their actions were very real and really reminded me of what it was like to be that age.

I didn't show more even notice that Travis was disabled, just that he hadn't been taught in the right ways for him. He was just a regular kid with regular problems, and I felt him so hard when he had trouble admitting his struggles. His teacher was very admirable.

The strongest aspect of the story was definitely the writing. Schmatz definitely had a compelling style and her words were both simple yet captivating, and she cleverly crafted his story.

I don't commonly find stories about middle schoolers strong, but this one was quite fascinating. With its strong writing, I highly recommend it for anyone in the age group. show less

One of the reasons I found the characters of Bluefish so appealing is that they are open to different possibilities, even though their personal histories could have prepared them to be only cynical and isolated. Teens who have lived much easier lives may not open themselves to friendship and opportunity. Velveeta and Travis allow themselves to change and trust, which provide both of them with richer lives.

Travis's life isn't going so well. He's moved far away from the swamp that was his sanctuary, he and his grandpa still aren't getting along, and worst of all, they had to leave Rosco behind. But when Travis starts classes at his new school, he meets the intriguing and dramatic Velveeta. Both Travis and Velveeta have secrets, but slowly, almost painfully, they begin to learn to trust each other.

Though each character in this novel has their flaws, they are also loveable in spite of them; in some cases, because of them. Travis is portrayed as the very definition of "still waters run deep," a silent, almost gruff kid who nevertheless has tremendous heart. Opposite him is the lively Velveeta, whose outsized gestures hide a lot of pain. show more Secondary characters, such as Travis's alcoholic grandfather and his enthusiastic reading teacher, Mr. McQueen, are also fully drawn. There are many facets for kids to identify with: illiteracy, emotional abuse, bullying, and loss, but none of it is treated melodramatically. There are a few instances of bad language, but nothing a middle schooler hasn't heard before. An encouraging read for students who are learning to be their best selves. For grades 7 and up. show less

It's been a long time since I enjoyed the drama of the cafeteria table, but I've just relived it twice in reading "Bluefish" and "Wonder" by R.J. Palacio. Where do I sit? Who will sit with me? Whom will I court as a tablemate? Will you trade your Doritos for my twinkie?

Bluefish is a quick read focused on the plight of its endearing characters, each with their own secrets and problems. Travis, who lives with his just-recovering alcoholic grandfather, is quiet and intense. Vida, nicknamed Velveeta years earlier, is a quirky verbal gymnast who lives with her not-recovering alcoholic mother. Both families are just getting by. They are joined at the lunch table by Bradley, portrayed as middle class, but is ostracized for his academic success show more and his athletic failure. There is some terrific Tom Stoppardesque verbal ping-pong between Velveeta & Bradley across the cafeteria trays.

There is intrigue, flirtation, a teacher with a heart of gold & surefire technique, AND a hip librarian who wears her library on her sleeve. Despite this reliance on character, the plot moves along to an appropriately unknotted conclusion.

I enjoyed this book, but have lent it to a 7th-grade girl for a test read. I will also test it on a few other students, but I think it will meet with their approval. show less

Bluefish made me cry and laugh equally and without warning. Velveeta is the girl I always wanted to be- you know the one,slightly quirky but endearing because she can make anyone crack a smile. A girl who uses laughter masterfully to hide her pain. Travis is in great need of that laughter because he is wound tighter than a drum and can't share his secret with anyone. This refreshing book speaks to teens and adults. The characters are real and true emotionally. The insightful teacher and librarian remind us how important certain adults are to these types of kids. I will be ordering this for our library. Thanks to Candlewick Press for the advance copy. Look for it in September.

Travis is missing his old home in the country, and he’s missing his old hound, Rosco. Now there’s just the cramped place he shares with his alcoholic grandpa, a new school, and the dreaded routine of school. But that’s before Travis meets Mr. McQueen, who doesn’t take "pass" for an answer—a rare teacher whose savvy persistence has Travis slowly unlocking a book on the natural world. And it’s before Travis is noticed by Velveeta, a girl whose wry banter and colorful scarves belie some hard secrets of her own. With sympathy, humor, and disarming honesty, Pat Schmatz brings to life a cast of utterly believable characters—and captures the moments of trust and connection that make all the difference.

Lady Wombat says:

Our daughter got bound galleys as part of the Fresh Ink reviewing program at Porter Square Books. She loved the book, insisted that I read it. And for once, we agreed upon a book. Lovely prose, well-constructed characters, lots of back-story drama but dealing with the aftermath of tragedy and loss is the true focus here. Travis reminded me a lot of myself as a middle schooler. Would definitely put it on a short list for Newbery contenders.