Mustaches for Maddie

"A moving novel about a truly brave girl. Maddie is a wonderfully thoughtful, creative, and funny protagonist, with whom readers will identify as she grapples with her social and physical challenges. This poignant and uplifting novel is a good read-alike for fans of R.J. Palacio's Wonder."-- "School Library Journal" (8/1/2017 12:00:00 AM)
"When the neurologist says Maddie has a brain tumor and needs surgery, and that the surgery might change her personality, or even end her life. Maddie doesn't want anyone to know, but Mom convinces her to tell. Much to Maddie's surprise, it turns out she has a ton of supporters, who all start wearing mustaches, too...to help Maddie bear her long, tough treatment. Based on the authors' experience, this sweet, hopeful, believable, and unsentimental tale rings true. Being brave, growing up, true friendship--this has it all."-- "Booklist" (11/1/2017 12:00:00 AM)
"Maddie's offbeat sense of humor is the heart of this story from spouses Morris and Brown, which was inspired by their own daughter. Maddie learns to stand up for herself and face her fears head-on in this moving story of courage and heart. Morris and Brown balance the gravity of Maddie's illness with her buoyant imagination as she navigates the reality of the surgery she needs and the politics of sixth grade."-- "Publishers Weekly" (8/21/2017 12:00:00 AM)
"Mustaches and the magic of cards unexpectedly come in handy when a brain tumor challenges a brave 12-year-old girl. Reflects the ups and downs of a young person braving a terrifying journey. Morris and Brown capture the interests of middle grade readers from the get-go with Maddie's high energy, imaginative narration and her love for sporting fake mustaches. Amid surgeries there are topics that Maddie ruminates on, such as life, friendship and the importance of accepting oneself. Very funny yet poignant, an encouraging read."-- "BookPage" (10/2/2017 12:00:00 AM)
"Follows the experiences of a young girl with an active imagination as she battles the biggest struggle of her life - a brain tumor. Although the subject matter is heavy, this book is not. The seriousness of the situation is offset by Maddie's strong sense of self and her ability to conquer obstacles through her imagination. Most of her humor is slapstick and court jester-like in nature, which makes for a fun read. This book does an excellent job of describing medical procedures in an accurate, yet non-threatening way. Some of the procedures include: getting shots, MRI, surgeries, being alone for some procedures, fears and feelings of being seriously ill, etc.

Throughout the book Maddie also deals with the issues a typical twelve-year-old would face: social pressures, relational aggression on the playground/classroom, the struggle between right and wrong, discovery of self, new crushes, etc.

Maddie is a very engaging character that is easy to fall in love with. She is quirky and different, and yet down-to-earth and relatable. This book is ideal for a wide range of readers including anyone going through a hard time - medical or otherwise. However, it is also good for those who are on the outside, who may want to help someone going through a hard time. There are discussion questions at the end of the book, which are great for group discussion, book clubs, or even one to one."

-- "Compass Book Ratings" (10/24/2017 12:00:00 AM)
2019 nominee-- "Rhode Island Children's Book Award"
2018--Grade 3-5 category "Ohio Buckeye Award winner"
Grades 4-6 category--2019-20 Nominee "Missouri Mark Twain Award"
Grade 4-5 for 2018-2019-- "Alabama Camellia Children's Choice Award nominee"