Ways to Make Sunshine by Renée Watson

Ways to Make Sunshine by Renée Watson

From Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Renée Watson comes the first book in a young middle grade series about Ryan Hart, a ten-year-old girl who is pure spirit, kindness, and sunshine.

Ryan Hart has a lot on her mind--school, self-image, and especially family. Her dad finally has a new job, but money is tight. That means some changes, like selling their second car and moving into a new (old) house. But Ryan is a girl who knows how to make sunshine out of setbacks. As her brother says when he raps about her, she’s got the talent that matters most: it’s a talent that can’t be seen, she’s nice, not mean!

Ryan is all about trying to see the best in people, to be a good daughter, a good sister, a good friend. But even if her life isn’t everything she would wish for, when her big brother is infuriating, her parents don’t quite understand, and the unexpected happens, she always finds a way forward, with grace and wit. And plenty of sunshine.

Acclaimed author Renée Watson writes her own version of Ramona Quimby, one starring a Black girl and her family, in this start to a charming new series.

Why it's on The Cornrow?

Selected by Sadé Ajana.

The Sadé of Sadé Magazine is our Children's Book Curator and she has selected this book for young readers.

Sadé's Review:

Ryan Hart is a daughter, sister and a friend but when her dad has to change his job and they have to move to a new home, she has to change schools Ryan feels really unhappy about the changes. With her mother's positivity and yummy dinners Ryan hopes to instantly change.

With Renee’s loving and touching words and Mechal Roe beautiful illustrations this makes a great storyboard. 

Rating 5/5  Beautiful illustrations topped off with lots of powerful words.