This coming-of-age story tells the current life of Bart, who is constantly bullied, has an alcoholic mother, and love the Opera. As he befriends a open girl named Ada, he discovers that the hardships are not worth dealing with alone, even if he is optimistic. With a delightful end, this is a must-read for middle school kids! ( )

Bart is a 13 year old who hasn't had it easy. A target for bullies in his school, Bart is put in boxing lessons by his mother to try and help him defend himself but he already has a great defense: his optimistic personality and his love of Opera. Bart loves to listen to and sing opera, but he is far too shy to do anything with it but when he befriends the popular Ada that all starts to change. I think this book is a great addition to any middle school library for its frank handling of pertinent issues like bullying and for that I rated it 5 stars. Bart and Ada are lovable characters and I believe it would be easy for any middle schooler to see a bit of themselves in either of them. ( )

Not sure if I would recommend this book to any grade lower than 6th. Not for the readability but it deals with many issues like drugs and has some profanity. Otherwise a great story with memorable characters! ( )