  | Growing up Beth Author: York, Beth | |
| Price: $21.88 | ||
Summary:
Nine-year-old Beth makes space for herself in a new place as her family moves out of the "projects" into their own home.
| Illustrator: | Latese, Ana |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (08/15/25)
School Library Journal (07/01/25)
Booklist (11/01/25)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 07/01/2025 Gr 1–4—Beth is the only girl in a family with five brothers, and though money is tight, her mom and stepdad, Bob, do their best to provide. Beth often wears hand-me-downs, but her family finds joy in everyday life, giving her a childhood full of heart and humor. Told through a series of short stories, this chapter book highlights the ups and downs of big family life. Some chapters loosely connect, while others feel like standalone vignettes. There is not a clear time line or stronger overarching plot to help maintain momentum, but the format allows readers to dip in and out of the book with ease. Each chapter includes a simple illustration in black, white, and blue that captures a moment from the text and supports reader comprehension. The language and chapter length are accessible, making this a solid choice for developing readers. While not especially memorable, the book offers light entertainment and humorous, relatable family dynamics. VERDICT May appeal to those seeking slice-of-life stories; a secondary purchase where early chapter books about family are in demand.—Kirsten Caldwell - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
Booklist - 11/01/2025 Imagine being the only sister in a household with five brothers. Such is Beth’s lot, but not to worry. The independent and outspoken 10-year-old gives as good as she gets in this early chapter debut. Author York looks to her own youth as she brings together a set of short, episodic tales that share the ups and downs of life in a large, blended family. Peppered with playful, expressive grayscale drawings accented with blue, this collection of loosely connected chapters shares everyday experiences that will resonate with and entertain readers who are new to the chapter-book format. The stories involve common touch points, such as getting hand-me-down clothes, going on a field trip, delivering newspapers, and getting stung by a wasp. Readers will enjoy diving into Beth's adventures and see her as a sister in fun. A good addition for libraries where Barbara Park's Junie B. Jones and Sara Pennypacker's Clementine are popular, this will please readers who are partial to spunky protagonists. - Copyright 2025 Booklist.
