Five Things about Ava Andrews - by Margaret Dilloway (Paperback)

About the Book

"Eleven-year-old Ava Andrews has a Technicolor interior with a gray shell. On the inside, she bubbles with ideas and plans. On the outside, everyone except her best friend, Zelia, thinks she doesn't talk or, worse, is stuck-up. What nobody knows is that Ava has invisible disabilities: anxiety and a heart condition. Ava hopes middle school will be a fresh start, but when Zelia moves across the country and Ava's Nana Linda pushes her to speak up about social issues, she withdraws further. So Ava is shocked when her writing abilities impress her classmates and they invite her to join their improv group, making up stories onstage. Determined to prove she can control her anxiety, she joins--and discovers a whole new side of herself, and what it means to be on a team. But as Ava's self-confidence blossoms, her relationship with Zelia strains, and she learns that it isn't enough just to raise your voice--it's how and why you use it that matters."--Provided by publisher.

Book Synopsis

A heartfelt and funny story about a shy eleven-year-old who learns to manage her anxiety through improv classes--and discovers her activist voice. From Margaret Dilloway, author of Summer of a Thousand Pies, and perfect for fans of Sharon Draper, Lynda Mullaly Hunt, and Holly Goldberg Sloan.

Eleven-year-old Ava Andrews has a Technicolor interior with a gray shell. On the inside, she bubbles with ideas and plans. On the outside, everyone except her best friend, Zelia, thinks she doesn't talk or, worse, is stuck-up. What nobody knows is that Ava has invisible disabilities: anxiety and a heart condition.

Ava hopes middle school will be a fresh start, but when Zelia moves across the country and Ava's Nana Linda pushes her to speak up about social issues, she withdraws further. So Ava is shocked when her writing abilities impress her classmates and they invite her to join their improv group, making up stories onstage. Determined to prove she can control her anxiety, she joins--and discovers a whole new side of herself, and what it means to be on a team.

But as Ava's self-confidence blossoms, her relationship with Zelia strains, and she learns that it isn't enough just to raise your voice--it's how and why you use it that matters.

Review Quotes

"The writing is lovely, and the main character is sensitively portrayed. Summer of a Thousand Pies is delightful reading for summer or any other season." - Margarita Engle, Young Peopl's Poet Laureate and Newbery Honor-winning author of The Surrender Tree
"Successfully explores the complexities of chronic illness mixed with mental illness ... a heartwarming story about a community discovering activism." - Kirkus Reviews
"An excellent selection for book clubs for children, read-together picks, and for anyone who enjoys a good underdog story." - ALA Booklist
"Alongside a sensitive portrayal of Ava's invisible disabilities, well-wrought subplots, such as problems with an unkind classmate and the growing distance between two once-close friends, support the journey of Dilloway's thoughtful protagonist from timid observer to well-liked social activist." - Publishers Weekly
"Dilloway covers a lot of ground including social justice, mental health, physical ability, and prejudice, but all the while the narrative is hopeful and encouraging.... Ideal for book clubs and discussions." - School Library Journal
"Memorable characters and strong writing make this more than just a book about pie." - School Library Journal
"Fans of Anne of Green Gables will find a satisfying story and another heroine to cheer on.... Sweet as pie."

- Kirkus Reviews
Praise for SUMMER OF A THOUSAND PIES: "Inspiring and hopeful.... [a] tender coming-of-age story, perfect for fans for Lynda Mullaly Hunt and Ali Benjamin." - ALA Booklist
"Evok[ing] the warmth of home, newfound security, and friendship, Dilloway effectively contrasts Cady's old life with her new one while examining her muddled emotions.... Those who share the protagonist's passion for the culinary arts will delight in the easy-to-follow pie recipes following the story's gratifying conclusion." - Publishers Weekly
"Readers will delight in Cady's new world of baking and friends and learning that with both, she'll be able to get through just about anything. This fabulous book about making pies will leave you hungry, while Cady's journey toward making a life will leave you entirely satisfied." - Donna Gephart, award-winning author of Lily and Dunkin and In Your Shoes
"Margaret Dilloway approaches tough topics with a fine touch. Readers are going to love Cady's spunk, determination, and grit." - Karina Yan Glaser, the author of The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street