5 stars

Dan Gemeinhart's characters have brought me so much joy, and Oscar Aberdeen is no exception.

Oscar is an unusual MG protagonist, who both reveals aspects of a typical 12-year-old and also some qualities of a senior citizen (or at least a much more mature adult). The latter can be largely attributed to Oscar's unusual upbringing. Oscar has been raised by his grandfather in a senior community due to the tragic absence of his parents. Though his parents are not part of his life, Oscar has been showered with love from his grandfather and the whole community, and this has also given Oscar an up-close view of the fragility of life, the joy of great music, and a strong moral compass. He's truly a remarkable kid.

Oscar ends up on quite an adventure with a resident and another youngster, and the details of this adventure really make the book, so they won't be spoiled here. Fans of the _Coyote_ books (and others in Gemeinhart's collection) will really appreciate the familiar (not repetitive - but, in other words, well articulated as expected) way this adventure is depicted, the careful treatment of challenging motifs, and the richness of these characters. This book will pluck all of your heartstrings, and you'll want to dive back in for another read or listen anyway.

I enjoy this author so much, and this newest book met my high incoming expectations. I look forward to recommending it to students and interested parties alike.