For some reason, kids often get the best stories. Kids’ books can often tell hard truths in imaginative ways. They’re so true. Maybe the difference between kids’ and adults’ books is that as an adult, you can recognize the truth looking back better because you’re past that stage. Adult books are more ambigious because we’re all just winging. Or, maybe kids’ books continue ringing true because some things are always true. Hmm. Either way, a Juvenile Fiction book that gets you thinking about these Big Things is probably a pretty good book. Indeed, in Eventown Haydu gently provides a real gem of a story with a bursting, aching, and brave heart. Expect to cry, and also to hold your head a little higher in real lfe.
Here’s the story: Elodee and her twin sister Naomi are middle schoolers about to ditch their home town of Juniper. Something bad has happened, and everyone is looking at them like they’re cursed. They’re pitied, and Other. Elodee’s and Naomi’s family leaves everything behind and moves to Eventown, a place they’ve occasionally visited on vacation but don’t know much about. They do know that it’s perfect. Beautiful lawns and cozy houses, the most delicious ice cream, the sweetest teachers, the best fields for cartwheels, and friendly neighbors. Elodee should love Eventown. She knows that she should. Everyone else does. But she has a nagging feeling that something is wrong.
As the story unfolds, Elodee has a big decision to make. As you read along, so will you.