The Friendship War

A great book! A very thoughtful protagonist. Wonderful to see the growth in the characters. I love Andrew Clements and am delighted to have received a copy of this new book in exchange for my honest review. And Honestly I can very highly recommend this book. I found the characters to be very real and the situation, too. A feel good book as the characters learn and grow and come to a fine solution to a sticky problem. Mr Clements really understands kids and how they think. A lot of depth, but still a page turner. The book is very enjoyable with several good lessons, but never knocks you over the head with them. I think middle grade children would really like this one.

The writing and characters seemed familiar "Clements". I enjoyed the development of Grace's relationship with Ellie throughout the story, and Grace's support from her older brother.
The button collecting, aka economics lesson, seemed less well written, though, and felt heavy handed.

Thanks to the author, publisher, and Edelweiss for the DRC. This was a wonderful depiction of friendship and acceptance. Friendships can be hard to navigate, but Grace figures out, the hard way, that unconditional love and acceptance are a big part of truly being a friend. I only hope that this book reveals what a true friend should be to those young readers who pick it up. Very glad this will be on shelves soon. Never disappointed by this author!