One Year in Coal Harbor

Starred review from January 28, 2013
In this sequel to the Newbery Honor book Everything on a Waffle, young Primrose’s peaceful life in the tiny town of Coal Harbor in British Columbia is interrupted by a series of events both positive and negative, including the arrival of Ked, a foster child who becomes her close friend; the clear-cut logging of the local mountain that threatens the woods she loves; and her Uncle Jack’s maddening inability to form a romantic connection with Miss Bowzer, even though Primrose is sure they’re meant for each other. Kathleen McInerney is a perfect narrator for this material, her versatile voice conveying the unique personalities of the eccentric cast of characters: the young optimistic tones of Primose, the aw-shucks drawl of Bert, the flighty, fluttery voice of Evie, and, most amusingly, the clogged and stuffy voice of Eleanor, Primrose’s annoying tattletale classmate, who has a perpetual sinus infection. A well-paced story and likable characters, combined with excellent narration, make this a very enjoyable listen. Ages 9–12. A Schwartz & Wade hardcover.

Starred review from August 20, 2012
Primrose Squab, the star of Horvath's Newbery Honor title Everything on a Waffle (2001), returns in this delightful sequel, chronicling the latest goings-on â¨in her British Columbian fishing village. Now 12 and happily reunited with her parents, Primrose has set her sights on compiling a cookbook and helping Miss Bowzer at the Girl on the Red Swing restaurant ("She was teaching me how to cook and I was trying to move the romance along between her and my uncle Jack"). When Ked, a foster child, arrives in town, Primrose gains an accomplice in her culinary efforts and an ally in opposing a local logging operation. More importantly, she hopes she has found a true best friend. Like its predecessor, Horvath's tale features wonderfully deadpan chapter headings and recipes ("If your parents have been stranded on an island for a year, this is a very poignant dessert," writes Horvath of floating meringue islands). Though the quirky (and highly memorable) characters and remote setting provide ample opportunities for humor, Horvath skillfully balances the story's light and dark moments, leaving readers with an ending both satisfying and honest. Ages 9â12.