When You Reach Me

1.      BIBLIOGRAPHY

Stead, Rebeccca. 2009. WHEN YOU REACH ME. New York: Wendy Lamb Books. ISBN 978-0-385-73742-5

2.      PLOT SUMMARY

While her mother is preparing to become a contestant on a 1970s television game show, 12-year-old Miranda begins receiving anonymous notes that seem to accurately predict the future.

3.      CRITCAL ANALYSIS

Stead’s When You Reach Me explores the idea of time travel. It’s a gripping mystery that has you hanging on to every word until the end because there are questions that must be answered: Who is the laughing man? Who is sending Miranda the notes, and how are they predicting the future?

The novel is character driven just as much as it’s driven by its plot. The characters are intriguing, always leaving you wanting to know more about them. All in all, just a wonderful story that keeps you on your toes and is a perfect read for children and adults who enjoy a good mystery.

4.      REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

Winner of the 2010 Newbery Medal

Starred review in SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL: “This unusual, thought-provoking mystery will appeal to several types of readers.”

Starred review in BOOK LIST: "The mental gymnastics required of readers are invigorating; and the characters, children, and adults are honest bits of humanity no matter in what place or time their souls rest."

5.      CONNECTIONS

*Open with a discussion on time travel and see how many ideas and opinions pop up!

*Read the book that plays a large role in this story:

            L’Engle, Madeleine. A Wrinkle in Time. ISBN 0-374-38613-7

*Other novels by this author:

Stead, Rebecca. First Light. ISBN 978-037584017