genre: middle grade fiction
Aven was born without arms. That might as well be the first thing you know about her because if you saw her, chances are it would be the first thing that you notice. Moving halfway across the country would be hard for any middle schooler, but for her it feels like an almost impossible thing to ask. Turns out, though, her parents have only ever believed that she is capable of doing anything that anyone else is. Whether that is getting herself dressed, managing life at school, or even playing the guitar, Aven's parents are certain that not having arms will not stop Aven from living an exceptional life. Her new home IS a bit usual, however, a Wild West theme park Arizona is the backdrop of her adventures as she figures out how to make new friends at a new middle school and maybe even solve a mystery.
This is a delightful book. Aven is unapologetically differently-abled, frustrated far more with how the world handles her than she is with her disability. The friends she makes, the clues she finds and tries to process, her snarky love of drama and storytelling, all of these things help us as readers to see Aven as a whole person - yes, a person without arms - a person with a rich life who is full of ideas and dreams. The mystery aspect was cute and while I had to stretch my disbelief a bit to believe it, I think the intended audience will find it just right. The narrative moved right along and I enjoyed the ride.
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