Published by Holiday House

Summary:  Isaac “Itch” Fitch is dealing with the usual sixth grade issues of fitting in and escaping the bullies.  But he and his best friend Sydney have some chronic health issues to deal with as well. Isaac has idiopathic angioedema which means he sometimes breaks out in itchy hives for no apparent reason, earning him his nickname; Sydney has life-threatening food allergies.  With his mom away on an extended business trip to China, Isaac tries to deal with his issues on his own. When Sydney collapses after a lunch-trading issue and is taken to the hospital, Isaac blames himself. It takes a few missteps, some caring adults, and a bit of soul-searching for Isaac to finally get himself straightened out and to realize who his true friends really are.  256 pages; grades 4-7.

Pros:  A realistic look at kids with chronic health conditions, how they affect their everyday life, and how they find the strength to cope with them.  Isaac and his friends’ experiences ring true and readers will find plenty to relate to.

Cons:  The Ohio State football craziness seemed a little over the top.  

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