Most of my best young adult book recommendations come from kids. When I give a book to a struggling reader, I need to know it’s one worth reading. When a book is kid-tested and kid-approved, I always check it out.Recently I was very grateful to a wonderful client for recommending Down the Rabbit Hole by Peter Abrahams. There’s a lot to like about this book. First, it’s got a great main character, Ingrid, an 8th grader who loves soccer and acting. Supporting characters are equally likeable and well developed, including a grandpa I wished was my own. It’s a mystery, which means it was a page-turner for me and will be for any kid who likes whodunits or crime dramas. However, it wasn’t too scary or inappropriate for young readers. The book is also set in Connecticut, in the made-up town of Echo Falls, and readers might enjoy some of the local references. Finally, if a kid does like this book, they’ll be happy to know that they can keep reading about Ingrid’s adventures in two more Echo Falls Mysteries, Behind the Curtain and Into the Dark.
Consider picking up Down the Rabbit Hole at your local library or bookstore next time you’re there, and starting it with your child. The beginning of a book is usually the hardest part for kids, so provide a lot of support through this part of the book, and you’ll find your child finishing more books independently. You might want to make sure you have the second book on hand, though, in case you both get hooked! •
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