Assessment:
Plot/Idea: Wishes Are Free is a charming and nostalgic middle grade story that explores the value of friendship and connection both for the young and old.
Prose: The prose is eloquent, dynamic, and clean, acting as an effective vessel for Howell's creativity while propelling the circumstances. Howell captures the protagonist's youthful tone, but doesn't compromise the maturity of her craft.
Originality: Wishes Are Free is a gentle and genuine story that centers on coming-of-age themes, while offering a broader perspective on grief and the changing seasons of life. At times, readers may find the story action to be somewhat staid and in need of a more intriguing backdrop. Still, the concept is touching and has much to offer young readers.
Character/Execution: Mercedes Howell capably depicts the concerns, anxieties, and stresses of her young characters, while the older characters contribute well to the story.
Date Submitted: May 08, 2024
Assessment:
Plot/Idea: The cozy, sweet storyline Howell creates sets this story apart. Throughout, the characters drive the plot in a natural and exciting way, and readers will enjoy following young Rose as she navigates her changing life.
Prose: The effortless and unpretentious prose allow readers to enjoy Rose's journey organically. Howell's style is casually condensed, but that matches the 10-year-old narrator's strong, clear voice.
Originality: Wishes Are Free evokes a classic children's novel feel, with a beautiful mixture of heart and life lessons sprinkled throughout. Though not completely unique, the book is extremely well done and offers a fresh perspective to readers of all ages.
Character/Execution: Howell creates deep, caring relationships between her main characters, particularly when it comes to Rose and her grandfather. These characters drive the novel and show readers the possibilities for beauty and warmth in a sometimes scary world.
Date Submitted: August 17, 2023
WISHES ARE FREE
by Diana Mercedes Howell ‧ RELEASE DATE: Sept. 15, 2022
An often-engaging work about a girl searching for a balm for the sting of separation.
In Howell’s children’s novel, a search for a new best friend turns up surprising results.
Rose O’Reilly and Linney have been best friends all their lives—even “before we were born,” Rose narrates, since their pregnant mothers were friends. In 1958, Rose learns after her 10th birthday that Linney will be moving from California’s Bay Area to Chicago, and she’s afraid that she won’t be able to find a new best friend. Soothed by a chat with her grandpa while drinking hot chocolate, Rose wishes on a star (which is actually the planet Venus) for a new best pal. Over the course of the remaining school year and into the beginning of summer, Rose learns a lot about friendship, manages to see her older brother in a different light, and continues to strengthen her already strong bond with her grandpa. Howell gives her protagonist an age-appropriate innocence, but she also imbues her with an inquisitive nature that has her grappling with tough issues, such as domestic violence and discrimination. Her phrasing befits a 10-year-old, as when she compares having a pleasant memory to getting a sneaky tap on the shoulder. But despite Rose and Linney having been best friends for so long, mentions of Linney are strikingly absent from the book after she leaves. The girls only exchange one letter, and they’re both brief. Although Rose has her hands full with all the events that follow her friend’s departure, one would imagine that Rose would miss her old pal occasionally. Readers will find Rose’s friendship journey to be a refreshing thrill, however.
An often-engaging work about a girl searching for a balm for the sting of separation.
"Rose O'Reilly and Grandpa is a delightful blend of magical elements and realistic storytelling. Howell's narrative style is engaging, painting a vivid picture where the fantastical becomes tangible. Her attention to detail brings characters to life, particularly in the portrayal of the relationship between Rose and her grandfather. which serves as the emotional core of the story.
The book's narrative is fluid and connects well with readers, gracefully weaving through a series of whimsical events. Howell strikes a fine balance between sentimentality and humor, adding layers to the story that make it both relatable and captivating.
This book exemplifies Howell's adeptness in creating an enchanting story, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation for future works from this gifted author. Howell's writing is straightforward yet rich, making the book accessible to a broad audience. The focus on the bond between a young girl and her grandfather is a refreshing element in contemporary fiction. This relationship is central to the narrative, guiding the plot through its various twists and keeping the reader engaged. The themes of friendship, love, and coming of age are woven throughout the story, making it particularly appealing to young readers.
Wishes Are Free: Rose O'Reilly and Grandpa is an excellent choice for parents looking for suitable reading material for children. The book's structure, with its short chapters, is ideal for bedtime stories or as an engaging read for young independent readers. The optimistic tone, endearing characters, and light-hearted humor make it a great pick for family reading sessions. Furthermore, this heartwarming tale is an excellent choice for gifting, suitable for occasions like baby showers. It's a wonderful read that is sure to bring joy and warmth to its readers."
Rating: 5 Stars
Rose and Linney had been together for as long as they could remember. Linney lived next door to her, exactly one hundred and one steps from her bedroom door. Rose O'Reilly could not imagine life without her best friend, someone she always expected to be there for her, in sickness and in health. Unfortunately, the only thing constant in life is change and her best friend was set to move to Chicago in a few months. Rose was heartbroken and she knew deep in her heart she wouldn’t be able to find anyone to replace her best friend. She sought comfort in the warm and kind wisdom of her grandfather who knew what she was going through, having just recently lost his own best friend: his wife. Join Rose O'Reilly in Wishes are Free by Diana Mercedes Howell as she discovered new friends in unexpected places.
Wishes Are Free was a heartwarming tale of family, friendship, and love. Rose was young and could not understand why the universe decided to have her best friend in the whole world move away. They were still best friends, of course, but it wouldn’t be the same since they would be thousands of miles apart. The account of Rose’s struggles allowed me to view the depths of her heart and character. The story revealed the importance of friendship and the value of empathy. It taught me how to move forward despite the uncertainty. At the book’s core, we learn about the many forms of love and friendship. Rose’s experiences taught me about compassion and kindness. Even when someone was mean to her, she still chose not to tell on him despite his rude actions. When it came to something that truly counted, our girl Rose was not afraid to stand up for the ones she loved. Her wishes were sweet and sincere which reflected her good heart. Rose inspired kindness and warmth with her honest thoughts. Her grandfather helped her grow and learn in the face of distress. The bond between Rose and her grandfather was the main foundation for such an inspiring tale. Diana Mercedes Howell has presented an unforgettable, pure, and powerful story that imparts many important lessons. Outstanding work.
Wishes Are Free has won the bronze prize in Readers Favorite International Prize.
