The Last Apple Tree Book Review and GIVEAWAY

BLOG TOUR

The Last Apple Tree

By Claudia Mills

Published by Holiday House

Mom's Review

The Last Apple Tree is a painful, validating, moving middle grade novel. By alternating viewpoints between Zeke and Sonnet, two seventh graders who are new to the school and trying to find their ways, the narrator allows readers a nuanced understanding of each character's experiences, of their feelings, of their interactions with one another. When a school project results in both Zeke and Sonnet - who are decidedly not friends - interviewing Sonnet's aging, grieving grandfather, tensions run high. We can see Zeke's appreciation for the welcome Sonnet' grandfather and younger sister extend contrasted with Sonnet's fear that Zeke's comfort talking with her grandfather will upset the older gentleman as he reminisces about good times and bad. 

Without spoiling the emotionally-rich book, I can say that the stories of the teens' lives are compelling. Centered around the interviews with Sonnet's grandfather, The Last Apple Tree depicts each character's inner turmoil. Both Zeke and Sonnet are in emotional pain, and seeing both perspectives allows the readers to understand how each character's experiences color their interpretations of the other's words and actions. Thought-provoking, this captivating novel centers on honesty, vulnerability, and compassion. Readers will come away with an appreciation for considering others' perspectives and experiences. The Last Apple Tree is a treasure.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win one ten signed paperback copies of The Last Apple Tree by Claudia Mills. But wait, there’s more! One lucky grand prize winner will get a special one-hour Zoom author visit with Claudia herself, plus signed copies of The Lost Language and a book from her wonderful chapter book series.

The Last Apple Tree: Book Giveaway

Note: This post is sponsored by Claudia Mills. All thoughts are my own.