A Friendly Town that's Almost Always by the Ocean by Kir Fox and M. Shelley Coats

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I love middle grade novels that employ a fresh sense of adventure and creativity. I feel there is something about books in this age group that allow them to be creative and innovative in fun ways and A Friendly Town That's Almost Always by the Ocean is no exception. This book is utterly charming while still having the kind of heart that you want a book like this to have. The story isn't sacrificed for the creativity, so to say, though it's format is quite different.

Davy moves to Topsea which is unlike any place he has ever been before and certainly unlike his last home. He's been facing a lot of changes in his life and he's trying to adjust, but Topsea's differentness presents quite a challenge to him. For example, he finds out his locker is at the bottom of the swimming pool!

The book is full of charming characters with their own quirks and in between chapters focused on these characters you can find historical anecdotes about Topsea as well as letters, articles from the school newspaper and so forth. The illustrations are also full of character and add just the right touch to the book.

Will Davy adjust to Topsea? Read this delightful book to find out! I do think this sort of book would make an EXCELLENT read aloud book so that is also something to consider for the family.

Recommended!