Heartbeat

Sharon Creech's 'Heartbeat' is a poignant novel in free verse that delves into the emotional world of twelve-year-old Annie during a year of significant transitions. Annie's mother is pregnant, her beloved grandfather is experiencing increasing forgetfulness, and her best friend, Max, is often moody. Amidst these shifts, Annie finds solace and understanding in her love for running and an art assignment to draw an apple daily. The book beautifully captures the ebb and flow of life, encouraging young readers to embrace change and find their own unique rhythm. It's a gentle, contemplative read, ideal for children aged 8-12, offering rich opportunities for discussion about family bonds, navigating friendships, and personal growth.

Run run run.That's what twelve-year-old Annie loves to do. When she's barefoot and running, she can hear her heart beating . . . thump-THUMP, thump-THUMP. It's a rhythm that makes sense in a year when everything's shifting: Her mother is pregnant, her grandfather is forgetful, and her best friend, Max, is always moody. Everything changes over time, just like the apple Annie's been assigned to draw. But as she watches and listens, Annie begins to understand the many rhythms of life, and how she fits within them.