Beginners Welcome by Cindy Baldwin
Published by Quill Tree Books on February 11, 2020
ISBN: 0062665898
Pages: 336
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Annie Lee’s dad died 83 days ago, but his records keep playing, there’s shaving cream in the sink every morning, and his continued presence is making it impossible for Annie Lee and her mom to be anything but sad all the time. Annie Lee is starting a new school, and she makes new friends in unexpected places. This doesn’t go along with her plan to be invisible, however, and she’s afraid she’ll get hurt when they leave her like her old friends did. When Annie Lee’s new piano teacher and friend, Ray, goes missing, she risks everything to find him.

This is a heartwarming and touching novel of friendship, loss, family, and more. Annie Lee is compassionate, kind, and has many of the fears typical of middle school kids. Readers will connect with her desire to fit in and stay hidden at the same time. I love the connection to music and finding one’s own voice throughout this book. There’s a touch of magic, but not enough to turn off those who don’t like fantasy. Recommended for 4th-8th grade, this book will be great for fans of Rebecca Stead, Kate DiCamillo, and the like.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME