Changes

There are many untruths in ''The Ethan I Was Before'', but the emotional heart of the book is completely honest. And the friendship between Ethan and Coralee, in which they each show the other how to think about their problems in new ways, is tremendously touching. Standish builds tension well as she gradually reveals everyone's truth and she will keep her readers engaged right to the very end. The book conveys emotions beautifully - both the painful ones and the joyful ones - and it will reassure children that there is light at the end of every tunnel.

[[Vicky Angel by Jacqueline Wilson]] is another fabulous middle grade story about coming to terms with grief. [[Breathing Underwater by Julia Green]] is beautiful and will also suit older teens.