Ava has quite the personality and finds herself in unique situations. THis book would be enjoyable for an elementary school girl.

A realistic and interesting children’s book set during the pandemic but with a little bit of a twist. Character development occurs, which I think is interesting because I had similar experiences during the last year — Main character has time for introspection, even as a kid. I liked the realistic and meaningful storyline without being preachy or just cliche and boring.

Eleven-year-old Ava West prides herself on being a carefree, easy-going, and adventurous person. Mundane, daily tasks are not a priority for her, and she is content letting others scramble to make sure she has everything she needs. However, when the COVID-19 pandemic finds its way to her home in Kangaroo Valley, Australia, Ava is faced with the implications of her narcissistic personality. One after another, she watches as her behavior adversely affects those she loves and she makes the brave decision to make choices that will improve the lives of those around her while building herself up, as well.

This pandemic-focused story is a fast-paced and relevant examination of a youngest child and her transition into a more independent human. Change is never painless, but Ava is determined to become a contributing member of her family no matter what. Her training for running is a guidepost for her as she begins to practice and strengthen her capabilities for responsibility.

Extensive and believable dialogue, text messages, and Ava’s internal thoughts propel the narrative, keeping pages turning easily. Middle grade readers with an interest in realistic fiction will appreciate the elements of friendship, family, and pets included in this enjoyable story. Though there are no visual elements, the direct relation to several global human experiences makes the story accessible to a wide range of readers.

With the COVID-19 pandemic as a backdrop, readers will recognize the familiar feelings of isolation and hopelessness that came from lockdown, the anxiety of not being able to find enough toilet paper or food, and the depth of connection that grows from turning one’s focus inward. Compellingly presented, this story flies by, following Ava’s challenges and missteps on her way to self-improvement. Readers will cheer for her as her intrinsic motivation grows and cringe when she makes a mistake. Middle grade readers are sure to connect with Ava’s situation and may even incorporate some of her more positive behaviors into their own lives.

The Ava Show was a quick read that reflected on the difficult issues we are facing. It handled the topic of a pandemic sensitively and gave an insight to how it affected children in an entertaining and heartwarming way.

Ava was a quite unlikable character to begin with as she was lazy and expected everyone to do things for her. But then we saw her change and evolve as a person and we got a satisfying character arch.

The plot in itself was reflective on the pandemic and showed how Ava got through it and became a better person. The theme of family and friendship was quite heartwarming along with the puppies of course!

The writing was engaging and entertaining. Overall it was a great read and I would recommend this!

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the E-arc!

Most of the books that have come out about the pandemic, or have taken place during the pandemic have been about keeping safe, and trying to explain it to children. This is the first book where while the pandemic is happening, and Ava does ask question this is really a story of friendship and responsibility, which I like much better.

Ava takes no responsibility for anything. She expects her best friend to do everything for her, as well as her parents and family. It means she almost always misses the school bus, and forgets her homework, and just expects everyone to help her.

And in this case, it is the pandemic that actually makes her realize she does have to take responsibility for her actions. First, when no one was supposed to touch other's things, and she has to remember to get her own books, and her own homework, and then she and her family are in lockdown, and she sees for the first time how much everyone does do for her.

I really enjoyed this. It was a bit nostalgic, if that is possible, for when the pandemic first struck, and how we all felt about it, and thought it would go away.

The author is good at having a young voice, and so all the things that Ava thought and did seemed quite plausible.

Recommended.


<em>Thanks to Netgalley for making this book available for an honest review.</em>