Hannah Edwards Secrets of Riverway -- Book Review

 

Disclosure: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

Do you know someone with ADHD? Have you ever wondered what their thought process is? Today we are sharing a new book written by an author with ADHD who bases her character on her own experiences. The book is Hannah Edwards: Secrets of Riverway by Ashley Hards. It is recommended for ages 9 to 12 and is the first book in a series of nine books. 

From the Publisher:

This authentic ADHD reimagining of Hamlet is an unconventional take on a classic–that’s also a mystery. Take Nancy Drew, mix it with Aza from Turtles All the Way Down, and add a ghost!

Cheer on Hannah Edwards in this exciting mystery and relatable coming-of-age story about ADHD, friendship, school, and family.

Hannah has a lot on her mind. Her father—the Canola King—is missing, and no one in her small town seems to care. With the support of her best friend Sam Castillo, and their sidekick Tim the Hall Monitor, Hannah embarks on a journey to solve the mystery of her father’s disappearance.

Along the way, she uncovers secrets that she records in her journal, confronts challenges in school due to her ADHD, talks to a ghost, and learns the true meaning of determination and friendship.

GREAT FOR READERS AGES 9-12
The novel’s blend of prose and inventive journal entries make it a compelling read for anyone looking for an engaging story with heart.

Perfect for School, Classroom, or Library!

• The book is a Contemporary Reimagining of Hamlet
• Interior font designed for increased reader accessibility
• For kids that like the Sammy Keyes mysteries and relate to Honestly Elliott

From Me:

I love that Ashley gives us a view into a mind with ADHD. As a teacher I have had many students with ADHD. I also have friends and family members with it. This view of how their minds work is wonderful. It gives the reader a bit of an understanding of what it is like to have ADHD. The book itself switches between her life and journal entries. Readers will be interested in the story and wondering what happened to her missing father. There is school, friends, family, grief and even a ghost. Can you solve the mystery?

The story covers many parts of Hannah's life as well as her own pain of losing her father. It shows her thought process throughout the school day and interacting with the adults at the school. As a teacher it made me question what my students think of me and how I talk and behave around them. She thinks of the school counselor as a dragon. She also is constantly thinking about how the teachers perceive her and how she needs to plan ahead for a question or at least make it look like she knows what is going on. The book is an interesting read for adults to look into how the mind of a teen with ADHD may be thinking. It can explain a lot! However the truth is kids are going to love this book. It has mystery mixed with the humors of everyday life. I hope you will check it out.