This story features a cast of characters that could be labeled the liberal cheaper by the dozen family.
Sumac Lottery is the fifth of seven siblings who share their big house with four parents, grandfather, and five pets.

As with all large families, there is always something happening. A big storm knocks out the power, and several family members aren't able to fly home. Add in their grandfather with dementia, and you've got a lot of side plots in this story.
Honestly, I had a hard time keeping track of who's who. This is the second book in the series about The Lottery family and maybe if I had read the first one I would have been less confused.

That said, I think kids need books like these. Whether they are members of an all-white hetero family or a family with a different spin on things, the author didn't make up any of these characters.

I would for sure include this on any We need Diverse books lists.

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Literary Merit: Fine
Characterization: Fine
Recommended: Only to fans of the first book
Level: Middle School

First of all, I didn't read the first book and so I was confused by all of the many characters in this book. This is one that I really needed the set up and introduction to the 11 main characters before reading their story in this book. If readers like books about big families and the holidays then this book will hit that spot on. The cultural touchstones included made it feel accessible and familiar to readers. ( )