The Truth of Me
Patricia MacLachlan, Author
Katherine Tegen Books/Harper-Collins Publishers, Fiction, June 2013
Suitable for Ages: 6-10
Themes: Grandmothers, Dogs, Animals, Family Relationships
Opening: This is a true story. The truest story ever. You may not believe it. Your loss. But it’s true. I have a witness.”
Synopsis: Robbie’s musician parents send him and his dog, Ellie, to spend the summer with his grandmother Maddy. Robbie’s parents are so absorbed with their music that he feels unnoticed. But, he can be himself with Maddy and her relaxed way of living. He loves listening to her stories about her adventures with animals in the woods, which no one else believes. Robbie is the only one who experiences Maddy’s gift with wild animals and how they trust her. Both Robbie and Ellie learn about the natural world through Maddy. And, Maddy shares a secret with Robbie about his mother that helps him understand his family dynamics and find “the truth of me.” With this information, Robbie finds the courage to make things right.
Why I like this book: This is a quiet book that celebrates family relationships and special gifts. Patricia MacLachlan has written a story that is realistic, special and begging to be explored. She has a gift for writing about families and this book is no exception. The characters are believable, the language is simple and easy for young readers, the narrative gentle and the plot engaging. Every family has its secrets and kids will curl up with this heartwarming and emotional story as they experience the magic with Robbie and Ellie. Patricia MacLachlan is a Newberry Medalist for her book Sarah, Plain and Tall. I reviewed her powerful 2013 picture book about grief and renewal, Snowflakes Fall, which was dedicated to the families of Newtown and Sandy Hook, CT.
Children's Books Heal 
I love gentle family stories, and by a favorite children’s author, no less. Adding this to the top of my list!! Thanks so much for spotlighting it, Pat. (I love the cover!)
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Patricia MacLachlan is among my favorite authors. Yes, it is a great and inviting cover. The book is a good summer read and magical.
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This sounds beautiful with a touch of magical realism. This is an author from whom i would love to read more!
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Yes, there is a touch of magical realism. You would enjoy the focus on nature and befriending animals.
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Hi Patricia,
We got this book a while back and it has been on my “to read” list but I hadn’t had a chance to dive into it. I’m so glad you selected it to review and now feel even more compelled to read it. I’ve added a bit of your review to our page for the book on our web site (with attribution and a link back of course). We’re starting to put little cards on the shelves in the shop in front of the books that we have facing forward. On Tuesday when I get to work I’ll face this one forward with a little card that says “Patricia Tilton recommends….”
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Craig, that’s so sweet of you! Patricia MacLachlan is a great storyteller. This is a magical summer read for middle graders.
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This sounds like something special: grandmothers often have a different approach to being with children and certainly help keep the magic of childhood alive.
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Grandma Maddy is the perfect granny and accepts Robbie for who he is. She’s the kind of granny who is mysterious and magical and friends to the animals in the forest. She also gives him insight into his parents which helps him find some resolution with his parents who travel the world.
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A nana after my own heart!
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This is a must-read for me! Thanks for bringing it to my attention, Pat. (I was trying the whole way through your review to place the author’s name. Of course! Sarah Plain and Tall!)
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And, she did that special picture book tribute in honor of the families of Sandy Hook. You will enjoy her style of writing and her imagination in creating Robbie’s special granny, who in a quirky and magical way, helps him make sense of his life and his place.
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Reblogged this on Plum Tree Books Blog.
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Thank you for reblogging my review. I am so appreciative! Great story!
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Thank you for reblogging my review!
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This is actually on my want list! Ms MacLachlan has a magic way with characters. I love her stories. Thanks for a lovely review!
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Thanks Rhythm. Glad it’s on your list to read. You won’t be dissappointed. The dog plays a major role and you’ll like that!
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This sounds like a very sweet story. I like when books focus on family relationships. Sarah, Plain and Tall used to be a favorite of mine when I was a younger so I should read this. Thanks for sharing Pat!
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Amanda, this is wonderful MG book about a young boy and his quirky granny. It’s magical.
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Another good book to add to my to-read list on goodreads.
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I hope you check it out. It is worth every minute. Patricia MacLachlan can surely spin a good tale.
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Grandmothers and dogs. No better combination than that.
Love and licks,
Cupcake
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Yes, I thought of you and Rhythm. The dog learns a great deal about dealing with wild animals. Great story!
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Another special story that will appeal to many. Must check it out.
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I hadn’t heard of this book but would love to read it.
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It is a really good book for middle grade students. Magical! Thank you so much for visiting my blog!
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Another great review of another wonderful book–thanks for sharing your thoughts!
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Thank you! I’m glad you enjoyed the book review. It’s a very good book!
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This book sounds great. I might try it out! 🙂
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I think that both you and Josie would enjoy this story. You would like the relationship Robbie has with his granny — it’s filled with wonder.
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This sounds like the kind of book I would have loved as a child, and would still love to read! I will get it on my TBR list. It will be great for my classroom library as well. 🙂
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I enjoyed reading this book. Magical in its own way. It would be a great book for your classroom library.
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