Compiled by Cynthia Leitich Smith

Check out the book trailer for Hope is a Ferris Wheel by Robin Herrera (Abrams, 2014). From the promotional copy:

Ten-year-old Star Mackie lives in a trailer park with her flaky mom and her melancholy older sister, Winter, whom Star idolizes.


Moving to a new town has made it difficult for Star to make friends, when her classmates tease her because of where she lives and because of her layered blue hair. But when Star starts a poetry club, she develops a love of Emily Dickinson and, through Dickinson’s poetry, learns some important lessons about herself and comes to terms with her hopes for the future.


With an unforgettable voice with a lot of heart, Hope Is a Ferris Wheel is the story of a young girl who learns to accept her family and herself while trying to make sense of the world around her.

Cynsational Notes

“Herrera’s first novel is quite accomplished, with plenty of heart and humor […] Star is a unique, determined, and loving child making the best of a bad situation; readers cannot help but root for her.” –School Library Journal, starred review

“In her debut, Herrera has created a delightful narrator with a memorable voice and surrounded her with a unique supporting cast. Got fans of Joan Bauer in your neck of the woods? Send them this way.” –Booklist

“A tender and truthful novel that addresses stereotypes without promising easy answers or cookie-cutter closure.” –Publishers Weekly

See also Author Interviews with Robin Herrera.