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Weirdly Walter

Audiobook
1 of 2 copies available
1 of 2 copies available

Sometimes finding your voice can sound funny. Walter and his father have always been inseparable. They've traveled the country together. Walter's been to just about every one of Dad's gigs. But this year, Walter's sent to live with his grandfather, in the town where Dad grew up, and start fifth grade at the Apple Grove Performing Arts Academy all on his own. And the worst part is—Walter has no idea why.

On his first day, Walter impresses the entire school with hilarious impersonations during the morning announcements. He finds himself tapped to try out for the school musical, but when his costar unearths the true reason why Walter's dad isn't around, will Walter be able to face the music?

Weirdly Walter is a heartfelt story about unconditional love, forgiveness, and how our heroes aren't always perfect, from the acclaimed author of Words on Bathroom Walls, Julia Walton.

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    • Kirkus

      August 15, 2024
      Fifth grader Walter copes with his father's sudden departure, life with Grandpa, and the challenges of a new school. "All great moments start with a choice." The book opens with Walter expounding on this quotation from his father, written in a journal that Walter's filled with Dad's words of wisdom. But Walter also directs readers' attention to Dad's advice on avoiding constipation--which sets the tone for this candid, reflective, and wildly funny novel. Up until now, Walter's enjoyed a nomadic existence with his musician father, but for some reason, he can't accompany Dad on his latest gig and must stay with his reserved, routine-loving grandfather. On his first day at his new school, Walter seizes the opportunity to make new-and-improved announcements over the intercom system. Because this is a performing arts school with an understanding principal, Walter's catapulted to fame rather than shame. He's soon cast as the lead in the school production ofWilly Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. New friend Filomena provides encouragement as Walter leans into his dad's advice to "be weird," "be kind," and "find the music in life." Meanwhile, phone calls from Dad prove enigmatic until Walter finally learns the real reason why he's been gone. Though some supporting characters are one-dimensional, collectively they offer insight into the adolescent experience. The novel skillfully weaves together lighthearted plot threads and more serious issues, including alcoholism, coming to a heartwarming--if somewhat predictable--conclusion. Walter is cued white; there's some diversity among the cast. Entertaining and wise.(Fiction. 9-11)

      COPYRIGHT(2024) Kirkus Reviews, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

    • Booklist

      October 15, 2024
      Grades 3-6 Fifth-grader Walter is used to his life traveling with his musician father, but now his dad has left him with his grandfather so that Walter can attend the Apple Grove Performing Arts Academy. Having no idea why Dad left or when he's coming back, Walter looks forward to their evening phone calls. But after Walter learns his dad has been in rehab and everyone around him knew about his dad's drinking, Walter isn't sure he can trust anyone anymore. Readers get a glimpse into the man Walter knows through the notebook he keeps, full of advice from his dad ("Be weird"). As Walter develops a friendship at school and connects with his grandpa in a way he never expected, he learns to embrace his weird and lands the lead role in the school musical. A sweet and tender novel about forgiveness and familial love.

      COPYRIGHT(2024) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

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  • English

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