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MWSA Review
Stronger Together is the second in the Cul-De-Sac Kids series by A. L. Zeine. It deals with issues that are common to military kids and children of divorced parents. As a chapter book for those aged 8 to 12, it deals appropriately with the emotions of military deployment, moving to a new city, and sharing time between divorced parents. It also gives good guidance on how children can cope with the attendant emotions.
Chloe and her single mom, a doctor in the U. S. Army, have received orders for a permanent change of station. While Chloe is happy to be reunited with Ella, a friend from a previous duty station, she is sad to be leaving her current friends, particularly Mia. Her desire to be with Mia distresses Ella, compounded with the deployment of Ella’s dad. Chloe realizes that she needs help in reaching Ella and goes to her mom for advice. She decides to take that advice, despite her fear, and work with Ella through the emotional upheavals on multiple fronts. Ella is able to be open about her struggles and finds that her friends are there for her and that they are stronger together.
Review by Betsy Beard
Author's Synopsis
Chloe is used to moving—it’s part of being an Army brat. But this time, she actually feels at home. Her mom’s schedule is better, her best friend Ella is just down the street, and the Cul-de-sac Kids have welcomed her with open arms. Life is finally settling down.
But Chloe’s heart is still tugged in another direction—back to her old home, where her other best friend Mia feels left behind. When Ella’s dad is suddenly deployed, Chloe’s world shifts again. She wants to be the glue holding everyone together, but how do you stay strong for everyone else when you’re feeling overwhelmed yourself?
Format(s) for review: Paper or Kindle
Review genre: Children & Young Adult—Middle Grade Chapter Book
Pages/Word count: 122 / 24,000