THE LIGHTHOUSE CODE

Bookish Trish...
I bought this book for my son. I got so caught up in the story of The Lighthouse Code, I read it though to the end (after my son fell asleep). If a children's story entertains the adults as much as the kids it shows how many levels it's working on. The story covers the subject of bullying from a child's perspective. I loved it so much I am ordering a couple of copies for my son's school library. Just a fabulous story and an engrossing read, if you've got kids, (and actually if you haven't).

Ancient Mariner (top 1000 Amazon reviewer)...
While there are side stories, some humorous set pieces, and some echoes of events from the first book, the main thrust of this story relates to bullying and the complicated process that kids go through in deciding how to react to, deal with, and report bullying.
Ellie Booton remains an engaging and sympathetic heroine. Her voice is strong and her observations are always interesting and well expressed. Also, a number of characters from the first book, (especially Grandma and Ellie's brother's girlfriend Susannah), continue as strong, appealing and wise/comforting presences. Ellie's friends also distinguish themselves. While they are sometimes confused or indecisive, they are also bright, thoughtful, loyal and sensitive.
Of the two main points that I took from the book, the first was a better understanding of how and why kids can convince themselves to keep silent about bullying. The second was an appreciation of how alert adults can cut through that silence and release the kids from their quandary.
This book makes a point and encourages one to think about bullying. It does so in a convincing fashion that feels authentic and avoids false steps or exaggeration. It's not that often that you find a middle grade book that is practical, pertinent, thought provoking, and engaging, but that's where I ended up as I read this book.