When you reach me

 

Stead, R. (2009). When you reach me. NY: Yearling. 

Miranda is the main character of this novel.  She is a sixth grader and begins to believe that she is meant to stop a death.  Miranda begins to see mysterious notes that were left there by a younger Marcus.  Marcus has traveled back in time to give those notes to himself and wanted Miranda to pass those notes along. 

Readers from age 8 to 12 would enjoy this mysterious tale of intrigue.  In addition to the mystery, readers can relate to the friendships we experience and how they begin to evolve over time.  Suggested readings include Liar & Spy by Rebecca Stead, Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool, A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle, and First Light by Rebecca Stead.

When You Reach Me meets the social developmental criteria because the novel’s main focus is on the character’s friendships and how they are in relation to each other. The book captures the evolution of friendships.  The story captures how friendships work and how they change over time.