The House on Sunrise Lagoon: Marina in the Middle
$7.99 USD
paperback
Return to Sunrise Lagoon in this warmhearted sequel, which finds anxious middle child Marina making waves on her journey to trusting herself.
If you want to get to know Marina Ali-O'Connor, you need to know three things:
One, despite her name, Marina is secretly afraid of the water.
Two, she wanted to be one of the Oldest Siblings, but is stuck smack dab in the middle.
Three, she's pretty certain she's the Extra Ali-O'Connor kid—the forgotten one.
When Boom, a budding filmmaker exactly Marina's age, moves in across the lagoon, she decides that Marina's quest to become someone's favorite Ali-O'Connor would make a perfect documentary. But when each plan goes a little bit wrong, Marina begins to wonder if she'll ever feel like she belongs, or if she'll always be lost in the middle.
Nicole Melleby, a New Jersey native, is the author of highly praised middle-grade books, including the Lambda Literary finalist Hurricane Season, ALA Notable book How to Become a Planet, Camp QUILTBAG (co-written with A. J. Sass), and The House on Sunrise Lagoon series. She's also the author of Sunny and Oswaldo, her debut picture book. She lives with her wife and their cats, whose need for attention oddly aligns with Nicole’s writing schedule.
"Moments of madcap humor and familial warmth characterize this emotionally generous summer tale from Melleby, which showcases the author’s command of fully realized characterization and distinct relationship dynamics.” -Publishers Weekly (The House on Sunrise Lagoon: Sam Makes a Splash)
“Layered family dynamics run through the heart of this character-driven story in which the love and devotion shared are as sure as the tides… An enjoyable and heartwarming read.” -Kirkus Reviews (The House on Sunrise Lagoon: Sam Makes a Splash)
“The Ali-O'Connors are an appealing bunch, each with their own quirks and foibles. The rivalry between Sam (who is adopted) and slightly older sister Harbor (Mom's biological child) is both believable and heart-wrenching at times; Marina (also adopted) is book-loving and reserved; and younger twins Cordelia and Lir (Mama's biological children) add humorous, relatable moments to the story. Perhaps most heartwarming is the tentative alliance that develops between Sam and Harbor as they team up to help Mom.” -Booklist (The House on Sunrise Lagoon: Sam Makes a Splash)
“This second series installment focuses on symptoms of severe anxiety emerging within a loving support network. Readers will appreciate the boisterous family dynamics and thoughtful treatment of mental health concerns. Entertaining and satisfying.” -Kirkus Reviews (The House on Sunrise Lagoon: Marina in the Middle)
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