Finding Friendship Under the Stars: A Review of Hello, Universe
When I first picked up Hello, Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly, I was drawn in not just by its colorful cover, but by the promise of an exploration into friendship, bravery, and the whimsical chaos of childhood. A Newbery Medal winner, this book had garnered rave reviews, and I was curious to see if it lived up to the hype. Spoiler alert: it certainly does!
The story unfolds in a single day, intertwining the lives of four very different kids. We have Virgil, the shy soul who often feels overshadowed in his sports-crazy family; Valencia, a smart, nature-loving girl who communicates through sign language; Kaori, an eccentric self-proclaimed psychic; and Chet, the bully who’d rather stick to basketball than embrace the quirks around him. The setup is charmingly relatable, capturing the essence of childhood dynamics that many of us remember—who among us hasn’t felt like an outsider at some point?
As the plot progresses, Chet’s prank that lands Virgil and his beloved guinea pig, Gulliver, at the bottom of a well serves as the catalyst for an unexpected and hilarious adventure. What follows is a rescue mission that digs deeper than mere antics, delving into the fears and misconceptions that often divide us. The rich tapestry of voices—each character lends their perspective—creates a narrative that is both engaging and enlightening. I found myself eagerly turning pages, as each viewpoint brought fresh insights into the themes of empathy, courage, and the magic of the universe conspiring in our favor.
Kelly’s writing is vivid and expressive, blending humor with poignant moments. Her portrayal of Valencia, a deaf girl navigating the world with resilience, struck a personal chord with me. In her quest for friendship and connection, I saw the broader message of embracing our differences and standing up for one another. The dialogue sparkles, making it easy to visualize the unfolding drama, and I often caught myself chuckling at the clever quips.
One passage that resonated deeply was when Kaori said, “Maybe you should consult the crystals.” It’s a beautiful moment that represents the ways we all search for support, wisdom, and a little magic in our lives, especially when the world feels overwhelming.
Hello, Universe is more than just a neighborhood story; it’s an invitation to reflect on how we interact with one another. It challenges readers to ask themselves if they’ll stand by as spectators or step into the role of allies. This resonance creates a wonderful opportunity for discussions among young readers, teachers, or parents.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Hello, Universe to middle-grade readers and adults alike. Its themes of self-acceptance, bravery, and the importance of friendship ripple through every page. Whether you’re looking to rekindle your childhood spirit or seeking an engaging read to share with someone special, this book will inspire curiosity and connection. Erin Entrada Kelly has crafted a heartfelt narrative that serves as a reminder that in the grand scheme of the universe, our small actions can make a significant impact—on ourselves and others. Happy reading!
You can find Hello, Universe: A Newbery Award Winner here >>