Mr. Gedrick and Me - Hardcover

Gr 3–5—A stand-alone novel that brings a little magic to a difficult but familiar middle grade topic. The Darrow family has recently lost their father. Stanley, the youngest, pines to be noticed, while his brother Fergus seeks solace on the baseball field. Amelia rarely leaves her room, while Mrs. Darrow struggles to find inspiration and regain her footing at her architectural firm. The Darrows hire Mr. Gedrick to help around the house, but they soon find out he is a very different sort of nanny. Mr. Gedrick has a car that bends time, a talent for breakfast, and uncanny similarities to the late Mr. Darrow. Ultimately, the family and Mr. Gedrick work together to heal their wounds and grow stronger. While it is clear that Mr. Gedrick has magical abilities, it is a subtle form of fantasy and packed with humor. The presentation of loss is tempered substantially through Stanley, the most optimistic of the Darrows. The plot resolves neatly and not all that realistically, but this doesn't prevent a satisfying conclusion. This joy-filled and charming tale will resonate with children who have faced a recent loss. Readers will come away with a feel-good assurance that wounds heal in time and loved ones are never far away. VERDICT A good choice as a family read-aloud or for those experiencing grief; generally recommended for large collections.—Taylor Worley, Springfield Public Library, OR