Review | Wish by Barbara O’Connor

The Good

This is a backlist title that I’ve been meaning to read for a while. I have read one Barbara O’Connor book in my history, and while it wasn’t bad, it wasn’t one of my favorites. So, I approached Wish with some trepidation, but I’m glad I enjoyed it. Charlie Reese is a well-drawn protagonist with relatable flaws, such as a bad temper and stubbornness. She feels like a kid you’d know in your neighborhood, and even though she isn’t perfect, readers will root for her from start to finish and be impressed by her character growth throughout the story.

I loved the friendships that Charlie forms in this story. First, her friendship with Howard, and the kind way he deals with her, even when she has trouble regulating her emotions. Then, her bond with the dog Wishbone, and how she learns more about herself from Wishbone. I also love the way her uncle and aunt show her love consistently and the school scenes add some comic relief for readers.

This book features some truly masterful writing. We see how Charlie observes the differences between her not-ideal family situation and Howard’s, how her relationship with her aunt and uncle changes throughout the story, and how she finally realizes what’s best for her after her sister visits. It’s always a treat when readers can see these emotional changes happening in a character without always being told outright.

Content Notes

Here are some specifics to know about the content.

Content Warnings

• Death: None on the page.
• Alcohol/substance abuse: None
• Sexual content: None.
• Violence: None.
• Religious content: None.
• Language: None
• Sensitive content: There is one reference each to family issues like a depressed mother, a dad who is incarcerated, and a high school-age older sister who smokes cigarettes.

Diversity

• Ethnic: Characters are mostly cued white.
• Sexual orientation: None.

Recommended for ages: 8+

Good for kids who like:

• Dog books
• Friendship stories
• Books by Barbara O’Connor

Publisher Details

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