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Children's Novel in Verse: Catching a Storyfish by Janice N. Harrington


 Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Catching a Storyfish Book Title: Catching a Storyfish by Janice N. Harrington Genre/Category: Children's Novel in Verse Target Age Group: 8-12 years

Plot Summary: Catching a Storyfish by Janice N. Harrington is a beautifully written novel in verse that follows the story of Keet, a young girl who loves to tell stories. When her family moves from Alabama to Illinois, Keet struggles to find her voice in a new place where everything feels different. Through poetry, Keet navigates the challenges of fitting in, making new friends, and finding her place while holding on to her love for storytelling and the comforting memories of her grandfather back home.

Justification for Title Selection: I chose Catching a Storyfish because it masterfully combines poetry and narrative to explore themes of identity, belonging, and resilience. The novel's unique format and lyrical prose make it an engaging read for middle-grade readers, offering both emotional depth and literary beauty. Harrington’s ability to address the complexities of moving to a new place and adjusting to change resonates deeply, making it a valuable addition to Whimsy and Wisdom.

Format Note: I read Catching a Storyfish as a paperback, which allowed me to fully appreciate the structure and flow of the verse. The physical format enhanced my experience of the book's rhythmic and visual elements, making the poetry feel more tangible and impactful.

Critical Evaluation:

  1. Tone: The tone of Catching a Storyfish is gentle, reflective, and hopeful. Janice N. Harrington’s use of verse creates an intimate and lyrical atmosphere that draws readers into Keet’s emotional journey. The tone conveys both the sadness of leaving behind a familiar place and the excitement and uncertainty of starting anew. Harrington’s poetic voice is both soothing and powerful, capturing the nuances of Keet’s experiences with empathy and grace.

  2. Pacing: The pacing of Catching a Storyfish is carefully crafted to reflect Keet’s emotional journey. The verse format allows for a rhythmic flow that mirrors the ebb and flow of her experiences and feelings. Harrington’s use of shorter and longer poems interspersed with moments of reflection and dialogue keeps the reader engaged and allows for a natural progression of the story. The pacing ensures that readers have time to absorb the emotional weight of Keet’s journey while maintaining a compelling narrative drive.

  3. Theme: The central themes of Catching a Storyfish include the power of storytelling, the struggle for belonging, and the importance of family and heritage. Keet’s journey illustrates how stories can be a source of comfort and connection, helping her navigate the challenges of moving and finding her voice in a new environment. The book also explores themes of friendship, cultural identity, and the resilience needed to adapt to change. These themes are woven together through Harrington’s evocative poetry, making the book both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant.

APA Citation:

Harrington, J. N. (2016). Catching a Storyfish. New York, NY: Wordsong.

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