Meet Me Halfway

Gr 3-7–Shy and reserved Matti Gomez has moved to California from Minnesota because of her mother’s recent marriage. The tween has gained a new stepfamily, but feels like she’s lost herself in the hubbub. Confident and popular Mercedes Miller hasn’t seen her jet-setting mother in months and lives with her live-in nanny and half-brother. Total opposites, the girls look like twins, but they soon realize that they do have something in common—a Colombian, anthropologist dad who has never been a part of their lives. The pair formulate a plan to track down their mysterious father at a nearby college where he’s teaching. Classic high jinks ensue. As the half-sisters jump through hoops to find the man they’ve never met but has left a hole they’re hoping to fill, the two grow closer and, eventually, forge bonds with each other and their heritage. Told in alternating chapters, this charming middle grade novel balances moments of levity with moments of aching sadness in a way that will resonate with readers. Sometimes it’s difficult to keep track of their family’s makeup—stepfathers, siblings, moms—and it’s not always easy to distinguish between the two narrative voices. However, poignant themes about found family, the disappointment felt when adults fail, and pitch-perfect dialogue make up for it. Both girls have light brown skin and dark hair and eyes. Mattie has panic attacks.