A review by mamadaughterbookclub
Isabel in Bloom by Mae Respicio

emotional hopeful reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

Wonderful novel-in-verse book about a Filipino girl who moves to California to be with her mother when she is 12 years old. Isabel leaves behind her home and her grandparents and all that she has known to start a new life in America. She makes friends and finds pieces of home when she starts up a garden club at her school to bring back the neglected garden. The poetry is lyrical and moving, and the story flows well as the different parts of Isabel's life represents the different stages of growing a garden. Very enjoyable and a quick read. Recommended for ages 8+.