Book Reviews
The In-Between Days by Eve Bunting
Reading level: Grades 4–6
Set on a remote island in Michigan, The In-Between Days is the story of George and his brother and father, a family drawn close since the death of George's mother five years ago. Family members work hard at keeping the memory of George's mother alive by telling stories about her and visiting her grave on holidays.
When his father becomes involved with a new woman, Caroline, George feels that his relationship with his father and the memory of his mother are threatened. He decides to take matters into his own hands and get rid of Caroline. It is only when he sees the impact his behavior has on his brother and father that his mind begins to change.
George's feelings are believable, and the gradual change in his perceptions of Caroline and of his place in the world are realistic and touching. Bunting has easily captured the self-consciousness of a preadolescent.
SECOND STEP Connections
This novel touches on every unit in the SECOND STEP curriculum, corresponding particularly well with lessons on perspective taking and changing feelings.
Juliet Morefield
