Published by Philomel Books, 2014
ISBN - 978-0399164057
I first drafted this blog post when our library, the Harvard Diggins Library, was nearing a scheduled visit from author Lisa Graff. Almost a year in the planning, this visit was to be a chance for our young people to meet an author in person. Most had read at least one of Lisa's books either as members of the Library's homeschool book club or in their elementary school classroom so there was a great deal of excitement to meet Lisa in person at last. Then along came the COVID-19 pandemic and plans quickly changed. Schools switched to e-learning so students could stay safe at home. The library closed shortly afterward when a formal 'shelter in place' order was issued. Lisa's visit had to be cancelled but I am happy to say that we are in the process of rescheduling her visit for another time.
I was just as excited to meet Lisa as the students. She's one of my favorite go-to middle grade authors whose work I can recommend with confidence to young readers. While there are a couple of her books one my to-be-read pile yet, my absolute favorite is Absolutely Almost. Published in 2014, it's a book that has stayed with me long after I've finished it. I find that to be true even after a second reading.
Here's a summary of Absolutely Almost Lisa Graff's website -
Albie has always been an almost. He's almost good at tetherball. He's almost smart enough to pass his spelling test. He almost makes his parents proud. And now that Albie is starting a brand new school for fifth grade, he's never felt more certain that almost simply isn't good enough. With everyone around him expecting him to be one thing or another, how is an almost like Albie ever supposed to figure out who he really wants to be?
In trying to determine the appeal of the book, I've come to the conclusion that I know so many Albie's in real life, both in my current and prior positions working with young people, that Lisa Graff has captured their essence in the pages of this book. I can think of so many faces that I could plug into Albie's, both male and female. I could also plug in my own from when I was younger. None of us know what our future selves will look like or whether we'll become a famous athlete or actor or whatever is celebrated today. The fact is that we evolve as we learn from each other, as we learn about ourselves and accept ourselves for who we are. Often the traits that make us liked and loved are not the skills like shooting three-pointers or winning a dance contest. It's just in being kind and thoughtful and skilled at building models and taking time for others and accepting everyone. And that's what Albie is and does. He's honest and open and tries his heart out. Sadly, it takes the adults in his life a while to figure out that Albie doesn't necessarily fit their mold but that's because he has a mold of his own that fits him just fine. What a great idea for young people to embrace. Be yourself and let others worry if they are not happy with who you are. I hope to remember that each and every day as I work with young people. There is joy in every one as long as we accept them just the way they are.
