Super cute book that really accurately captures what it's like to be a 12 year old learning about the world, friendships, and the trials and tribulations of growing up.

Don't go in expecting this to be a time travel novel, while ultimately that's what this book culminates as, it's more of a cosy magical realism-esque contemporary novel. That said, if you are struggling with it the ending is so good that it was worth the more bland parts of the novel.

It is middle grade so I always keep in mind that I am viewing this through my adult lens, but even so this book dragged at times. Mostly due to the length (the set up is very, very long compared to the payoff) and the blandness of the writing style. It is told through a letter/story written by the main character who is 12, but I feel a lot of 12 year olds reading this would expect slightly more out of the writing (as someone who was reading Terry Pratchett at that age I certainly would have).

I would also caution parents and educators to make sure to discuss some of the themes of this book with young readers. Because of the age of the book (2009) and the time setting (1978-9) there are some aspects that should be explored outside of the text, particularly with racism (it's handled well enough for not being a major theme, but perhaps not explored enough for a reader who has little context already).

Overall, highly recommend for both kids and adults!