Oh, Sal

“Henkes’ third book centered on the Miller family—after the Newbery Honor The Year of Billy Miller and Billy Miller Makes a Wish —follows Billy’s 4-year-old sister, Sal. . . . Sal’s New Year’s Day has plenty of big moments of misunderstanding—and understanding. . . . Henkes’ keen awareness of the ways it is hard and constantly revelatory to be a child gives this simple family story a sense of heart and happiness. . . . Delightfully superb.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review) “This third, stand-alone installment of the Miller family saga is told from four-year-old Sal’s point of view. It’s New Year’s Day, and there’s simply too much going on for her. . . . But if Sal is at times overwhelmed by life’s complications, she is part of a loving family that takes her emotions seriously and includes her in their day-to-day decisions. . . . Henkes is a master at probing the mind and heart of a young child, writing with gentle humor and affection.” — Horn Book (starred review) “In this stand-alone companion book to The Year of Billy Miller and Billy Miller Makes a Wish, the spotlight shifts from eight-year-old Billy to his four-year-old sister, Sal. . . . It’s New Year’s Day, and she can’t find her favorite Christmas present . . . Written in third person from Sal’s viewpoint, the story takes place within a 24-hour period, yet the family members’ actions, concerns, and conversations offer a broad range of insights into the characters and their relationships. . . . A captivating family story with gentle humor and emotional resonance.” — Booklist (starred review) “Sal has a lot going on—a new sister, a visiting uncle, an annoying brother, and a missing pair of underpants. . . . With his characteristic charm, Henkes takes readers straight into the microcosm of a little girl’s world where small things mean everything, and imagination helps process emotions; readers will easily feel at home. The picture-perfect narrative creates a natural world filled with a relatable and engaging cast that feels more like family than book characters. . . . Authentic and warm.” — School Library Journal