Half a Chance

About this book

A moving middle-grade novel from the Newbery Honor author of Rules, now in paperback!

When Lucy’s family moves to an old house on a lake, Lucy tries to see her new home through her camera’s lens, as her father has taught her — he’s a famous photographer, away on a shoot. Will her photos ever meet his high standards? When she discovers that he’s judging a photo contest, Lucy decides to enter anonymously. She wants to find out if her eye for photography is really special — or only good enough.

As she seeks out subjects for her photos, Lucy gets to know Nate, the boy next door. But slowly the camera reveals what Nate doesn’t want to see: his grandmother’s memory is slipping away, and with it much of what he cherishes about his summers on the lake. This summer, Nate will learn about the power of art to show truth. And Lucy will learn how beauty can change lives. . . including her own.

Reviews

Praise for Half a Chance:

*"[Lord] has combined vivid, cinematic description with deft characterization and handles several important issues with sensitivity, nuance, and great skill... A deeply enjoyable read." -- School Library Journal, starred review

*"Lord offers a tender treatment of early adolescent needs and struggles in this thoughtful coming-of-age novel... With subtle but effective imagery and a relatable protagonist, the title speaks to both human loneliness generally and the plight of a young girl in need of friendship." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review

*"With winning results, Lord brings the same sensitivity to the subject of dementia that she brought to autism in her Newbery Honor book, Rules." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review


Praise for Rules:

A Newbery Honor book, Schneider Family Book Award, ALA Notable

"Catherine is an endearing narrator who tells her story with both humor and heartbreak... A lovely, warm read, and a great discussion starter." -- School Library Journal