The Zebra Wall

The Zebra Wall, like all of the Kevin Henkes books I have read, is lovely, in a uniquely Henkes way. Like his other books, it involves a small cast of characters, is intensely focused on one of them, (Adine, age 10) and specifically on her emotions and inner workings. No other writer I have encountered so masterfully represents the deep, inner emotions and thoughts of a child. Like his other books, the plot is minimal. Almost unimportant. The plot is just the vehicle for showing us Adine as intensely and closely as possible.
Adine has four sisters, and her mother is off to the hospital to have the sixth baby, who unexpectedly turns out to be a boy. Her mother's overbearing sister, Aunt Irene, moves in temporarily to help the family out. show more The children are not fond of Aunt Irene, and Adine specifically does not like her.
In the course of the short book, Adine explores every facet of her complex emotions regarding her irritating Aunt. show less

Not my favorite by this usually terrific author. We have an 'Aunt Irene' in our family, but there's no adjusting, no getting to know the person better - it'll always be difficult to be with them. And I agree with Adine; the new room will give the baby migraines. I feel so sad for the old room (I hope they took pictures at least). Thank goodness it was a short book so we could get to the point and move on.

Novel for middle schoolers about a growing family of girls with names in alphabetical order: Adine, Bernice, Carla, Cot, Effie and a soon to be new member whose name will of course begin with 'F'. Humorous and a bit unrealistic. Not one of Henkes' best efforts.

The Zebra Wall by Kevin Henkes 147 pages
Why I chose this book: I really enjoyed reading Olive's Ocean, and thought that I might enjoy reading one of his books meant for a younger audience.
What I thought: Again, a nice quick read, with enjoyable characters and morals to the story. Will def. read more of his books, and sugg. this book to anyone old or young.

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