Marvelous Middle Grade Monday (September 26, 2016): Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo

For MMGM, I'm recommending Raymie Nightingale by Kate DiCamillo.

Here's the publisher's description:

Raymie Clarke has come to realize that everything, absolutely everything, depends on her. And she has a plan. If Raymie can win the Little Miss Central Florida Tire competition, then her father, who left town two days ago with a dental hygienist, will see Raymie's picture in the paper and (maybe) come home. To win, not only does Raymie have to do good deeds and learn how to twirl a baton; she also has to contend with the wispy, frequently fainting Louisiana Elefante, who has a show-business background, and the fiery, stubborn Beverly Tapinski, who’s determined to sabotage the contest. But as the competition approaches, loneliness, loss, and unanswerable questions draw the three girls into an unlikely friendship — and challenge each of them to come to the rescue in unexpected ways.

Two-time Newbery Medalist Kate DiCamillo returns to her roots with a moving, masterful story of an unforgettable summer friendship.

Kate DiCamillo writes great books, and awards have backed this up (her debut was a Newbery Honor book and she later wrote two books that won the Newbery). Raymie Nightingale is no exception. The book features many descriptions and anecdotes that work very well in the story. For example, at one point in the book, Raymie remembers taking lessons on how to save people, such as those who are drowning. This is very well-described, and ends up serving a purpose at the end of the book. The characters are very well-written. Beverly is somewhat cynical, and can be kind or somewhat mean. Louisiana is friendly but very strange, such as when she reads a book but makes up what is happening. Raymie is very upset about her father leaving, but, although her sadness mixes in with regular life, she keeps going. This book is a great read with a perfect balance between sad and happy moments.