In lieu of an abstract, here is a brief excerpt of the content:

Reviewed by:
  • Kate the Great: Except When She’s Not by Suzy Becker
  • Amy Atkinson
Becker, Suzy Kate the Great: Except When She’s Not; written and illus. by Suzy Becker. Crown, 2014 262p Library ed. ISBN 978-0-385-38743-9 $15.99 Trade ed. ISBN 978-0-385-38742-2 $12.99 E-book ed. ISBN 978-0-385-38744-6 $10.99     Ad Gr. 3-5

In this first title in a series, Kate details her struggles to befriend the unpleasant, self-isolating Nora (at her mother’s behest), navigate her relationship with her older [End Page 86] sister, and earn a place as flute section leader in band, not to mention survive art with Mrs. Petty, who specializes in mind-numbing rhetorical questions. Kate’s world is comfortingly small and secure, with reassuringly predictable relationships; their dynamic ultimately proves soothing, and her supportive friendships offer an inviting alternative to petty fights and competition. Her harmonious family life is idealized, though, with the family discussing important ideas and famous quotes together every night at the dinner table (for instance, her parents repeatedly recall Einstein’s musings on needing to decide if one is in a hostile or friendly universe), and the voice is initially somewhat forced and clunky. It does manage to find its rhythm, though, and Becker subtly reveals details about Kate as she appears to others, developing her characterization and allowing readers to more fully engage with and relate to her. With a plot that’s heartfelt if not groundbreaking and an appealing layout that includes cartoony spot art and newspaper clippings, Kate’s story makes a fine outing for readers wanting minimal drama and a few laughs with their experience of a manageable and friendly universe.

...

pdf

Share