I thought this book would be too sad, you know, like middle grade fiction has a tendency to be. And it was sad, but it was also utterly charming. I love the way the book flowed, how all the pieces of the story gradually came together. I loved the hints of magic - which save the story from being too sad. I loved the illustrations. I would give this book to 5th graders and up, those who enjoy realistic fiction - as an introduction to magical realism.