Comment

Jun 24, 2016samcmar rated this title 4.5 out of 5 stars
Mya Tibbs is going to be one of those series that I am going to relish for next installment as I complete each book. There is this genuine quality to Crystal Allen's story of a young black girl who wants to be herself but also be friends with those in her class. Mya wants to be a cowgirl. Mya wants to win Spirit Week for her "best friend" Naomi. Mya wants to do the right thing, and she wants to be appreciated. I loved this story and I could identify with Mya's troubles in elementary school because they happened to me. Mya's best friend Naomi is so problematic as a character and it makes her a wonderful foil. Naomi wants to be the most important person in all her friend's lives, she wants to be the star, and if she is betrayed, she takes it pretty personally. This begins a lot of Mya Tibbs' story, along with her being paired with the school bully for Spirit Week, hence the "Showdown." What I adored about this novel is that Mya's problems, her resolve, and her kindness felt so realistic, and I love the way she is written such tenacity. She's a sweetheart, and every time she got into trouble I completely felt for her. I also loved the relationship that blossoms between Mya and Connie as it felt very organic in the story, and not forced in the slightest. I loved Connie's secret and the way in which Mya fell in love with it as well. There is just so much so adore about Mya Tibbs, and I cannot wait to see what new friendships and adventures she will have. I think this is the start of a fantastic middle grade series!