Paper Things

Ari is a fifth-grader who dreams to go to Carter Middle School just like her family did. But Ari’s situation isn’t exactly normal. Her mother died four years ago wishing that Ari and her older brother Gage stay together always. But now that Gage is nineteen, he decides he can no longer live with their guardian, Aunt Janna. Ari decides to leave with Gage, but after two months, Gage still hasn’t found an apartment for the two of them. Instead, they have been staying with whoever is willing to take them in. All of this “couch surfing” is taking its toll on Ari’s schoolwork, cleanliness, and friendships. Can this situation go on forever? Or will Ari be forced to make a tough decision and break her mother’s dying wish?Ari is a strong character who does not even realize she is homeless at first. As Gage and Ari’s situation develops, Ari discovers a strength she never knew she had and opens up to the people around her. In the book PAPER THINGS, Author Jennifer Richard Jacobson reveals a whole new perspective on homelessness. It is not just what we see on the streets of big cities, homelessness is so much more. How many children in our schools are in situations like Ari? Books are mirrors, reflecting our own lives; and windows, showing us the lives of others. PAPER THINGS would be an excellent addition to any classroom/school library.

It was a good book, but nothing extraordinary. I didn't really like the main character, which didn't help. I did however admire her choice in the end of the book. I was happy then that she finally got the help she needed. Making up with her friend was another thing I felt like she needed to do, and was glad when she finally did. Her whole paper family kind of confused me, and I wonder why that was included in the book at seemingly random times. Overall not bad, but not great either.

I used this as a book club option for 5th graders. It soon became a hit. I love how it embraces those kids who struggle to fit in simply because everything else has been out of their own control. I believe it shows preadolescents how to build courage and confidence in yourself. Believe in you!

This book was absolutely astonishing. While it was a required read for summer break I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was very creative. One of a kind. I gave it 5 stars because of the imagination, creativity and the moral of the story. It is very heartfelt and interesting and quite unpredictable. It also has a very satisfying ending. Would read again.

I wish I could give this more stars. The writing is done well, and the storytelling is very good. The characters are developed nicely and are believable, but I found the story to be rather boring and I had a hard time staying with it. It was just incredibly slow for me. A young girl might like it, especially one who could sympathize with Ari, the main character.I like books with a little more action. This book is basically about a little girl who is just trudging through life hoping to get into a special school, but due to her life's circumstances, is afraid she won't make it. I really didn't see her making much of an effort actually. This book was just okay for me.

Insightful and touching narrative of a young girl’s experiencing homelessness. A story of courage and hope. And most importantly family

Easy to read; a wonderful plot for middle schoolers

good