Plot summary, “The Higher Power of Lucky” by Susan Patron in 5 Minutes - Book Review
0"The Higher Power of Lucky" is a children's novel written by Susan Patron and illustrated by Matt Phelan. It was published in 2006 and received critical acclaim, winning the prestigious Newbery Medal in 2007.
The story follows a ten-year-old girl named Lucky Trimble, who lives in the small desert town of Hard Pan, California. Lucky is an orphan who lives with her guardian, Brigitte, and dreams of finding her "higher power," someone who can guide and protect her. Inspired by her eavesdropping on twelve-step meetings, Lucky believes that finding her higher power will help her overcome the challenges she faces in her life.
Throughout the book, Lucky grapples with various issues, including her absent father, her strained relationship with Brigitte, and her longing for a loving family. She befriends a diverse group of characters in Hard Pan, including Lincoln, a boy who is teased for having a severe facial deformity, and Miles, a mysterious artist.
As Lucky navigates her way through the ups and downs of her everyday life, she learns valuable lessons about friendship, perseverance, and the power of community. The book explores themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the importance of finding strength within oneself.
Susan Patron's writing style is accessible and engaging, capturing Lucky's unique voice and perspective. The book addresses some mature themes and challenges, but does so in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner, making it suitable for readers in the middle-grade age range.
"The Higher Power of Lucky" received praise for its authentic portrayal of a young girl's emotional journey, its depiction of diverse characters, and its exploration of important topics such as loss, identity, and the search for meaning. It is a heartwarming and thought-provoking novel that encourages readers to find their own sources of strength and support.