In this book, Ryan sees her parents’ struggles, yet, it’s far from sad and gloomy. If you read my reviews, you’ll know I enjoy middle-grade books that deal with financial strain, because it is a part of so many kids’ childhoods. She brings the same simplicity and depth to the table in this book. I love Renee Watson’s writing honestly, I would read her grocery lists. She learns to love her natural hair and has a hilarious but teachable pool moment with her hair, cooks lots of yummy food, and learns to tackle her fear of public speaking. Although this is a “slice-of-life” early middle-grade book, Ryan’s exploits are interesting. I enjoyed reading her interaction with her brother, Ray, and her friends Amanda and Kiki. Throughout this slice-of-life book, Ryan learns how to believe in herself, enjoy public speaking, be a bigger person, and love who she is. With the new house, and selling one of their cars, her parents can better deal with their financial struggles. She doesn’t have to change schools and is still close enough to one of her best friends. She also fears that it will be too small to entertain guests, because Ryan loves to create new recipes - and cook them!

She liked their old house, and even though she has her own room in this new house, this house is a smaller bungalow, which means there will be no stairs to play on. Ryan is unhappy about the change for many reasons. In Ways to Make Sunshine, Ryan Hart and her family are moving to a new (old) house because her dad lost his post office job and his new job doesn’t pay as much.

Book ways to make sunshine