THE KING OF JAM SANDWICHES was a difficult and rewarding book to read. It is the story of Robbie, a thirteen-year-old boy whose family situation is precarious. One of Robbie's teachers asks Robbie to look out for Harmony, a new student with her own precarious living situation. Despite a rocky initial encounter, Robbie learns to trust Harmony — and here the novel gains so much depth and richness.

Author Eric Walters notes that he drew upon elements of his own life in writing this novel, and the subject matter certainly cuts close to the bone. Robbie's dad is angry, controlling, and in need of mental health support; the opening scene, where Robbie's dad drags Robbie out of bed in the middle of the night to alternately berate him and show him how to manage the household money in case Dad dies, is uncomfortable verging on brutal. Yet there is tremendous compassion and tenderness in Robbie, which Harmony gradually draws out, despite her own anger and prickliness. Robbie and Harmony could be played as a fun, comedic odd couple — and there are moments of laughter and comedy in the novel — but Walters takes their relationship to a much less clichéd and much more significant place. I found the ending surprising and moving — and hopeful, for those readers who need it.

THE KING OF JAM SANDWICHES recently won the 2020 Governor General’s Literary Award for Young People’s Literature – Text, a well-deserved recognition. If you're trying to build an inclusive and diverse classroom or school library, this is an important book to include. I'm glad I read this novel. ( )

This was a really powerful book that covered a lot of heavy topics like mental illness and poverty in a realistic way while still being hopeful in the end. ( )

Robbie is stoic in the face of the many trials in his life. He has a plan, and puts one foot in front of the other-until Harmony crashes into his world. Harmony, who has a host of her own problems, really sees him and makes him rethink his plan of working hard to escape, all the while ignoring the wrongs being foisted upon him by his uncaring, mentally ill father. Caring for Harmony allows him to care for himself and finally reach out for the help he needs and deserves. ( )

the story of two teens who become friends and of how that friendship changes both of their lives indelibly. Pretty simple sinopsis for a pretty simple story, but you can't help but care about these protagonists and worry about their futures. It's a good read and I would recommend it to any student. ( )

Many other reviewers have covered the synopsis of this book so I apologize if I forgo it. I can say this is a wonderfully painful read. The book is emotional, heartfelt, honest, touching, and even entertaining. The writing is not robust but that serves the emotional core of the story even better. Each chapter resonates in its own way. The reader can only hope that the writing of the book was semi-cathartic for Walters and much gratitude and support for the author being as open with the material as he was. A great read that is not easy to put down or forget. ( )