by Kevin Henkes
The Birthday Room is a book I have selected to write a review on. Kevin Henkes, who lives in Madison, Wisconsin, is the author of this book. This book centers on a family which has been torn apart because of an event that happened in the past. It also focuses on how the family attempts to reconcile their differences.
On Benjamin Hunter's 12th birthday, he receives two gifts: a letter from his Uncle Ian inviting him to come visit, which thrills Benjamin, and a room from his parents, which he could care less about. Benjamin has not seen his Uncle Ian for several years because of a family grudge over an accident in which Benjamin was injured while he was being cared for by Ian. Benjamin is granted his wish to go visit his uncle and is accompanied by his mother. During their stay at Ian's in Oregon, Benjamin meets a new friend, Lynnie, and his new aunt, Nina, who is pregnant. Nina has problems with her pregnancy, and Lynnie's brother, Kale, is involved in a very bad accident. The problems with the pregnancy and Kale's injuries from his accident seem to bring the families closer together in their own ways and make them realize how important family is.
I enjoyed this book because it focused on something very sensitive and private: family problems. This book makes you realize how important your family is. Your family should be something you treasure in good times and in bad times. I liked this book because it is realistic about families having difficulties and not always living in a perfect world.
The theme of this book is life is too short to quibble over small things. Don't live in the past. Look forward to a bright future. Treasure your family.
Reviewed by Alylsa 10/02