Strong-willed Ivy, introduced in Where the Heart Is (Candlewick Press 2021), returns with her spunky personality undiminished. . . Her nine-year-old viewpoint on experiences of friendship, baking, watching cooking shows, fixing things (her true forte), and her general worries are sure to resonate with young readers, especially fans of the Junie B. Jones series.
—School Library Connection
Knowles has again created a thoughtful, realistic story from multiple perspectives that illustrates how some problems can’t be solved instantly. Ivy grows, as do her family and friends, and the narrative ends with a new future to tackle. Though a sequel, this novel stands strongly on its own.
—Booklist
Meant to Be shines a light on the wonderful, kindhearted kids who sometimes fall through the cracks. Ivy’s voice—and her bike-fixing, pancake-making, friendship-mending determination—will stay with me for a long time.
—Kate Messner, award-winning author of The Seventh Wish
A wonderful, tender-hearted story of friendship, empathy, and baking lessons with vivid characters that will resonate with all those who long to have things stay the same in a world that is always changing.
—Christina Diaz Gonzalez, award-winning author of The Red Umbrella
Meant to Be will melt your heart like butter on a sunny day. Ivy is energetic, optimistic, and funny. We all need Ivy in our lives, especially now.
—Debbi Michiko Florence, award-winning author of the Jasmine Toguchi series
Jo Knowles has done it again! Meant to Be offers a touching portrait of a realistically imperfect kid trying her best to be a good person and a better friend.
—Megan Frazer Blakemore, author of the Frankie Sparks, Third-Grade Inventor series
With Ivy, young readers will find the perfect companion to trek through all the complex feelings that come with growing up. From the joy of new friendships to the reality of learning what it means to be truly empathetic, this book is an emotional gem.
—Kat Yeh, award-winning author of The Truth About Twinkie Pie
Utterly delicious! Ivy’s a rare treat—a friend with an upbeat attitude who puts her whole heart into helping others.
—Lisa Papademetriou, author of the Confectionately Yours series
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