Finding Orion
John David Anderson, Author
Walden Pond Press, Fiction, May 7, 2019
Suitable for Ages: 8-12
Pages: 368
Themes: Death, Grandfather, Family relationships, Fathers and sons, Love, Humor
Book Synopsis:
Rion Kwirk comes from a rather odd family. His mother named him and his sisters after her favorite constellations, and his father makes funky-flavored jellybeans for a living. One sister acts as if she’s always on stage, and the other is a walking dictionary. But no one in the family is more odd than Rion’s grandfather, Papa Kwirk.
He’s the kind of guy who shows up on his motorcycle only on holidays handing out crossbows and stuffed squirrels as presents. Rion has always been fascinated by Papa Kwirk, especially as his son—Rion’s father—is the complete opposite. Where Dad is predictable, nerdy, and reassuringly boring, Papa Kwirk is mysterious, dangerous, and cool.
Which is why, when Rion and his family learn of Papa Kwirk’s death and pile into the car to attend his “Funneral” and pay their respects, Rion can’t help but feel that that’s not the end of his story. That there’s so much more to Papa Kwirk to discover. He doesn’t know how right he is.
Why I like this book:
This is one wacky story and it tops my list for the oddest book I’ve ever read. That being said, it’s also charming and funny, and heart-warming and downright bizarre. Anderson takes quirkiness to a new level when a singing clown shows up to tell them Rion’s grandfather, Frank, has died. Who does that? What a great “gotcha” opening for readers. You are compelled to read on.
The plot is hilarious and engaging. The “FUNNeral” is held in the Greensburg, Illinois town park, with speeches, a barbershop quartet, a marching band and food trucks to feed the guests. This is not your normal send-off, but it is original, fulfills Papa Kwirk’s final wishes and allows the community to come together to share happy memories of “Jimmy,” a man they loved, with his family. Rion’s father is done with all of the untraditional nonsense and ready to head home when Aunt Gertie announces that there is a scavenger hunt to find Papa Kwirk’s ashes. The hunt is important journey in the story. It is an opportunity for everyone in the family to know Papa Kwirk better and to heal the divide between Rion’s father and grandfather.
Rion (Orion) is probably my favorite character because he is a smart and observant narrator, funny and awkward on his path to self-discovery. Rion may feel very ordinary among his odd parents and siblings, but he notices things that others don’t. The remainder of the characters are just plain fun and of course quirky. The sibling dynamics are delightfully normal with all the usual sibling pranks. And not to forget Cass’s pet python named Delilah.
I fell in love with the Kwirk family and their emotional journey as they explore the joy and pain, and regret and recovery of being a family. Readers will discover many laugh-out-loud and irreverent moments. I highly recommend this unforgettable book.
Favorite Quote:
“Seriously?” I shouted, my voice carrying through the amphitheater. “This freakin’ family can’t even die normally.” Page 140
“One thing could be said for my grandfather, through: he was one of a kind. And there was a whole town full of people who would never forget him.” Page 335
John David Anderson is the author of many highly acclaimed books for kids, including Ms. Bixby’s Last Day as well as Posted, Granted, Sidekicked, and The Dungeoneers. Visit Anderson’s website for more information.
Greg Pattridge hosts Marvelous Middle Grade Monday posts on his wonderful Always in the Middle website. Check out the link to see all of the wonderful reviews by KidLit bloggers and authors.
*Reviewed from a library copy.
I’ll have to get a copy of this book! My son and I have enjoyed other John David Anderson books, but I hadn’t heard about this one. Thanks for your review.
LikeLike
It is a great book to share with your son! So many laughable and outrageous moments. And, there is a treasure hunt, I didn’t mention.
LikeLike
I’ve read several J.D.A. novels and always come away with a feeling of time well spent. This sounds like another great one with superb characters and humor. I’ve put it high on my list of books to read in the remaining months of 2019. Thanks for your thoughts on this unique story.
LikeLike
It is a unique story and I think you will enjoy it! The first chapter grabs readers and you can’t put it down. Some predictability and a treasure hunt.
LikeLike
Your comment about this being the ‘oddest’ book you’ve ever read really caught my eye. Now this title is on my TBR list. Thanks for sharing this book with us for MMGM.
LikeLike
Why not inject some humor into a difficult topic like loss? It makes for a terrific read.
LikeLike
I am not drawn to too odd, generally, but your review makes me want to try this especially as I can think of some students for whom this may be one of the favorite reds this year.
LikeLike
But you like to laugh. And sometimes we need laughter around sober topics like death. I think you’d enjoy Anderson’s writing style.
LikeLike
I just put this book on the top of my TBR list. You make it sound so enticing. Thanks for the heads up.
LikeLike
You are welcome! I think you will enjoy it — I did!
LikeLike
It sounds like a wacky family but in a good way. I’m going to put it on my TBR list too.
LikeLike
The humor takes the edge of the weighty topic of death and grief. And it helps a family reconnect.
LikeLike
Wow! I want to read this book. Thanks for putting it on my radar 🙂
LikeLike
You are welcome. I loved spending time with the Kwirk family. Odd is good in this story.
LikeLiked by 1 person