On Thin Ice

*Review is of an advanced reader copy The story of Ked Eakins, a young boy plagued by adversity: a rare spinal condition, a mother who skipped town, a father gambling away their rent money, a towering school bully, and less than friendly classmates. If this sounds like a lot, it is. Fortunately, Ked......more

Ked’s story, though very specific in its use of the rare medical condition kyphosis and a host of family issues, will speak to many readers through its themes of family, friendship, and struggling to fit in. The conversational text employs authentic dialog and pop culture references, such as Star Wa......more

I thought this was a well-written and fast paced middle grade novel that dealt with some difficult topics (physical differences, gambling, homelessness, abuse). I've seen some complaints about it being too mechanical in regards to the tinkering with the motorbike, but I don't think those chapters de......more

When you think of “thin ice”, what thoughts come to mind? I think of a cold uncomfortable rough situation. I believe the author chose “Thin Ice” as the title of this story because it represents the struggles of the main character Ked. It symbolizes the difficulties Ked is going through like being be......more

A hard but compelling read, the protagonist is going though a tough time and the author does not white wash the situation: bullying, gambling, separated parents, and a rare disorder that would be embarrassing for anyone let alone someone in middle school. Told with sensitivity, this well written nov......more