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Willow Krimble #1
A Girl Named Willow Krimble
So, you’ve just discovered that the person who has tormented, mocked and humiliated you for the past three years is lying in the school parking lot, bleeding internally from a hit and run accident. No one else is around and you need to get to a life-and-death family emergency of your own before it is too late. What would you do? Oh, did I mention you have the secret ability to heal others just by touching them? This is just one of the many situations 13-year-old Willow Krimble must face in this Web Novel, A Girl Named Willow Krimble. Willow lives with her mother and older brother, Wyatt; she loves hanging out with her best friend, the feisty and sarcastic Razzel Fiora, and she has a close relationship with her grandmother. Seems pretty normal, right? It might be if the two most popular girls in middle school, Shayla Stergus and Snella Burenbine, did not taunt and remind her, on a daily basis, that she was born without her left leg. Forced to maneuver through obstacles most teenagers would not need to tackle, Willow is suddenly blessed (or cursed?) with the unusual power to heal others through touch. Ever selfless, Willow’s desire to help the injured and sick thrusts her into a world where she is given immense responsibility, putting the needs of others before her own, all the while trying to maintain her secret. Willow’s adolescent journey takes her through an emotional cyclone where she finds joy and purpose in helping an array of patients, from an old man with Alzheimer’s, to a mauled animal in a pet store. But Willow soon finds out there are limitations to her ability and, no matter how hard she might try, she cannot save everyone. Through the intermingling of joy and pain, Willow is repeatedly tested to discover just how strong she can be, how strong she has been her entire life, and how everyone possesses the ability to effect another person’s world, with or without a secret power.
316 pages, Paperback
First published January 19, 2011
11 people are currently reading
694 people want to read
About the author
Giuseppe Bianco
20 books32 followersJust a guy with a lot of stories to tell. Please check out my novel, "A Girl Named Willow Krimble". It is totally free on my web site. Why? Because I want people to read it. Not just midddle-graders, but everyone. I hope you enjoy it because her story will continue in the next book I am writing.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
August 6, 2011
A Girl Named Willow Krimble is a book that caught me so off guard. The synopsis hadme interested, don’t get me wrong, but I had no idea I was going to fall so in love with this book. The characters were great all the way from Willow, our main character, to her funny group of friends; even the people we meet along her journey were phenomenal. The special ability that Willow acquired through this story not only makes for some interesting moments but it also causes our main character to grow and learn throughout the whole story.
Willow is a character that readers will connect to and sympathize with from the very first page. Her personality is so beautiful and kind that you can’t help but love the girl. Willow starts off as an average teen trying to make it through middle school with not so average issues. Not only does Willow face struggles such as the loss of her father and grandfather, or an over-worked mother, but Willow must also deal with the fact that she was born with only one leg. Willow suffers from low self-esteem in areas that other girls seem to take for granted on top of dealing with a lot of taunting and teasing. Your heart will instantly go out to her. She cares so deeply for others and has enough love in her to brighten anyone’s day so all that you, as a reader, will truly want is for her to just be happy. You want the teasing the stop, you want her to realize just how beautiful, wonderful, and special she truly is. But I, as well as nearly every girl out there who has gone through the awkward teenage stage knows, growing up and finding confidence in yourself must be learned. Sure your caring grandmother can tell you that you’re beautiful, or your cranky old teacher can say you really have a talent in poetry BUT it is up to you to really find that self confidence.
Willow’s great character is matched with wonderful side characters. She has an extremely strong support system made up of a mom, a brother, her grandmother, and her very best friend Razzel. Willow’s mom is a wonderful mom. She lost her husband way before she should have but she does what needs to be done to raise her two kids. She works hard at the hospital and then comes home and works even harder to stay close with Willow and Wyatt, her son. Wyatt is the type of big brother every girl wants. He has just the right amount of annoyingness and sweetness. He will drive Willow and her mom absolutely insane and then turn around and stick up for Willow whenever she needs him. Willow’s grandmother is another great character! Her love for Willow was clear to see through every scene they had together. Even though ALL of these characters are great, they still don’t compare to my dear Razzel. Razzel is the most awesome best friend ever. I can say this because she sounds EXACTLY like my real-life best friend. Her fierce protectiveness over Willow and her uncanny ability to make any situation full of humor makes her a great half to this dynamic duo. They balance each other out so well. Whereas Willow is quick to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, Razzel is there to protect her when people don’t always have the best intentions.
Even though Willow’s life is very stable and she is surrounded by many people who care for her, finding out you have an ability to heal anyone with just a single touch can be a bit earth-shattering. In true Willow form she takes it in stride. At first she is confused about why her of all people is blessed (or cursed depending on how you look at it) with this special power. Once she gets over the initial shock, Willow does everything possible to help people. She makes many trips to the hospital where her mom works, to perform miracles on certain patients. She saves random animals, random neighbors, and the occasional old, crazy man. Willow’s mission to save people takes us through such a wonderful journey. We meet many great side characters with flamboyant personalities. We learn of Willow’s limits and Willow learns about just how special she really is.
Not even 50 pages into this book I knew there was something special about it. The writing
spoke to me in a way that no novel has done before. It was simple enough for middle graders and young reluctant readers to understand but the way that these simple words were written was so beautiful and catching. I found myself actually marking page after page of some of my favorite quotes; this is something that I have never done before. The beautiful writing only mirrored the beautiful life lessons that were learned in this story. A Girl Named Willow Krimble will catch you so off guard and surprise you in the best way possible.
Favorite Quotes:
“Perfect has boundaries, Willow. Perfect ends at certain points because it is so precise and exact that it cannot go beyond its own limitations. It’s technically correct and it’s safe, but if you stop worrying about what’s perfect, then great things can happen because you are bound and shackled by nothing.”
Willow peered into her grandmother’s gaze.
“So I ask you now, Willow, do you really wanna be perfect…” Grandma Trisha leaned across the bed until she was practically touching noses with her granddaughter,”…or do you wanna be great?”
-A Girl Named Willow Krimble by Giuseppe Bianco, page 71-72
“So whenever I wonder what life may be like for me if I were, let’s say, for lack of a better term, normal, I come to realize that what I get to do is so much better than normal. I don’t entertain for fame and fortune, but if I can inspire anyone sick or well to try something new that they never thought they could do…Would I be happier if I were the next Celine? I can’t harp on what I have no control over; I can only go as far as I can with what I’ve been given. And that’s something I can be extremely proud of, no matter what the CD sales say.”
-A Girl Named Willow Krimble by Giuseppe Bianco, page 171-172
Willow is a character that readers will connect to and sympathize with from the very first page. Her personality is so beautiful and kind that you can’t help but love the girl. Willow starts off as an average teen trying to make it through middle school with not so average issues. Not only does Willow face struggles such as the loss of her father and grandfather, or an over-worked mother, but Willow must also deal with the fact that she was born with only one leg. Willow suffers from low self-esteem in areas that other girls seem to take for granted on top of dealing with a lot of taunting and teasing. Your heart will instantly go out to her. She cares so deeply for others and has enough love in her to brighten anyone’s day so all that you, as a reader, will truly want is for her to just be happy. You want the teasing the stop, you want her to realize just how beautiful, wonderful, and special she truly is. But I, as well as nearly every girl out there who has gone through the awkward teenage stage knows, growing up and finding confidence in yourself must be learned. Sure your caring grandmother can tell you that you’re beautiful, or your cranky old teacher can say you really have a talent in poetry BUT it is up to you to really find that self confidence.
Willow’s great character is matched with wonderful side characters. She has an extremely strong support system made up of a mom, a brother, her grandmother, and her very best friend Razzel. Willow’s mom is a wonderful mom. She lost her husband way before she should have but she does what needs to be done to raise her two kids. She works hard at the hospital and then comes home and works even harder to stay close with Willow and Wyatt, her son. Wyatt is the type of big brother every girl wants. He has just the right amount of annoyingness and sweetness. He will drive Willow and her mom absolutely insane and then turn around and stick up for Willow whenever she needs him. Willow’s grandmother is another great character! Her love for Willow was clear to see through every scene they had together. Even though ALL of these characters are great, they still don’t compare to my dear Razzel. Razzel is the most awesome best friend ever. I can say this because she sounds EXACTLY like my real-life best friend. Her fierce protectiveness over Willow and her uncanny ability to make any situation full of humor makes her a great half to this dynamic duo. They balance each other out so well. Whereas Willow is quick to give everyone the benefit of the doubt, Razzel is there to protect her when people don’t always have the best intentions.
Even though Willow’s life is very stable and she is surrounded by many people who care for her, finding out you have an ability to heal anyone with just a single touch can be a bit earth-shattering. In true Willow form she takes it in stride. At first she is confused about why her of all people is blessed (or cursed depending on how you look at it) with this special power. Once she gets over the initial shock, Willow does everything possible to help people. She makes many trips to the hospital where her mom works, to perform miracles on certain patients. She saves random animals, random neighbors, and the occasional old, crazy man. Willow’s mission to save people takes us through such a wonderful journey. We meet many great side characters with flamboyant personalities. We learn of Willow’s limits and Willow learns about just how special she really is.
Not even 50 pages into this book I knew there was something special about it. The writing
spoke to me in a way that no novel has done before. It was simple enough for middle graders and young reluctant readers to understand but the way that these simple words were written was so beautiful and catching. I found myself actually marking page after page of some of my favorite quotes; this is something that I have never done before. The beautiful writing only mirrored the beautiful life lessons that were learned in this story. A Girl Named Willow Krimble will catch you so off guard and surprise you in the best way possible.
Favorite Quotes:
“Perfect has boundaries, Willow. Perfect ends at certain points because it is so precise and exact that it cannot go beyond its own limitations. It’s technically correct and it’s safe, but if you stop worrying about what’s perfect, then great things can happen because you are bound and shackled by nothing.”
Willow peered into her grandmother’s gaze.
“So I ask you now, Willow, do you really wanna be perfect…” Grandma Trisha leaned across the bed until she was practically touching noses with her granddaughter,”…or do you wanna be great?”
-A Girl Named Willow Krimble by Giuseppe Bianco, page 71-72
“So whenever I wonder what life may be like for me if I were, let’s say, for lack of a better term, normal, I come to realize that what I get to do is so much better than normal. I don’t entertain for fame and fortune, but if I can inspire anyone sick or well to try something new that they never thought they could do…Would I be happier if I were the next Celine? I can’t harp on what I have no control over; I can only go as far as I can with what I’ve been given. And that’s something I can be extremely proud of, no matter what the CD sales say.”
-A Girl Named Willow Krimble by Giuseppe Bianco, page 171-172
July 25, 2017
There is A LOT going on with Willow Krimble. She discovers that she has the ability to heal people and animals, her grandmother dies, and she is being bullied. She manages everything, including a fallout with her best friend, in a mature way. Willow is a likable character; sometimes she seems a bit older than she is supposed to be.
August 19, 2011
A Girl Named Willow Krimble by Giuseppe Bianco is not the first book I've read about a girl with the ability to heal but it's definitely an interesting take on the subject. Willow Krimble is a young girl just trying to make it through life. Willow was born without one of her legs. She wears a prosthetic and is completely comfortable in her skin. However her slight difference makes her a target for bullies. Willow discovers by accident that she has an extraordinary gift. The ability to heal. Willow starts to ask herself all sorts of questions such as: Why me? How do I decide who to heal? Where did this gift come from?
Willow is a really good character. She's smart and funny. Together with her bff, Razzel, she's ready to take on the world. She also is very mature and has a great sense of family for her age. Razzel is a tough cookie. She is Willow's protector as well as her partner in crime. Razzel has a stubborn streak, holds grudges and has a temper. She also has a big heart and is very loyal.
The storyline in this book is good. Willow has the ability to heal everyone but herself. She also has to make tough decisions about who she should heal. Willow is also just a regular 13 year old trying to get by. She has a lot on her plate but she handles it with maturity.
I think this is a good book for kids and adults as well. Willow teaches us not to be afraid of being different, overcoming obstacles and being yourself. I enjoyed this book. Giuseppe Bianco ends this book with a hint that Willow Krimble is not finished with being extraordinary. There is more to come.
Willow is a really good character. She's smart and funny. Together with her bff, Razzel, she's ready to take on the world. She also is very mature and has a great sense of family for her age. Razzel is a tough cookie. She is Willow's protector as well as her partner in crime. Razzel has a stubborn streak, holds grudges and has a temper. She also has a big heart and is very loyal.
The storyline in this book is good. Willow has the ability to heal everyone but herself. She also has to make tough decisions about who she should heal. Willow is also just a regular 13 year old trying to get by. She has a lot on her plate but she handles it with maturity.
I think this is a good book for kids and adults as well. Willow teaches us not to be afraid of being different, overcoming obstacles and being yourself. I enjoyed this book. Giuseppe Bianco ends this book with a hint that Willow Krimble is not finished with being extraordinary. There is more to come.
September 1, 2011
My Thoughts:
I am normally an adult genre reviewer. However, when A Girl Named Willow Krimble was offered up in the nest, I was drawn to it & claimed it. It took me a while to finally get to it, with life and the epically long A Dance With Dragons read. Mr. Bianco was even kind enough to send me a paperback, to save my poor eyes from having to read it off a computer.
It took me a chapter or two to really get into this book - Not due to the author's prowess, but because it is so far removed from what I usually read that it me a minute to find my reading groove. Once I found it, I was cruising right along with Willow and her best friend, the quirky and hilarious Razzel. Together we traverse the halls of Ginkelman Middle School (which gave me flashbacks both good and bad) as Willow tries to remain strong and out of the way of the Plastics-esque queens of the school, Snella and Shayla.
Life is hard enough at 13, but to add to it, Willow is smart, kind and has a prosthetic left leg - All of which make her a target for mean girl behavior. When Willow discovers she has the ability to heal through the power of touch, it gets a whole lot more complicated. Willow chooses to figure her gift out on her own, until a fateful talent show accident brings an old friend back into her life. She soon realizes she can't heal everyone, and suffers heartache and loss with amazing aplomb and maturity. The characters are believable, funny and endearing. This book is a great read, no matter what your age.
I am normally an adult genre reviewer. However, when A Girl Named Willow Krimble was offered up in the nest, I was drawn to it & claimed it. It took me a while to finally get to it, with life and the epically long A Dance With Dragons read. Mr. Bianco was even kind enough to send me a paperback, to save my poor eyes from having to read it off a computer.
It took me a chapter or two to really get into this book - Not due to the author's prowess, but because it is so far removed from what I usually read that it me a minute to find my reading groove. Once I found it, I was cruising right along with Willow and her best friend, the quirky and hilarious Razzel. Together we traverse the halls of Ginkelman Middle School (which gave me flashbacks both good and bad) as Willow tries to remain strong and out of the way of the Plastics-esque queens of the school, Snella and Shayla.
Life is hard enough at 13, but to add to it, Willow is smart, kind and has a prosthetic left leg - All of which make her a target for mean girl behavior. When Willow discovers she has the ability to heal through the power of touch, it gets a whole lot more complicated. Willow chooses to figure her gift out on her own, until a fateful talent show accident brings an old friend back into her life. She soon realizes she can't heal everyone, and suffers heartache and loss with amazing aplomb and maturity. The characters are believable, funny and endearing. This book is a great read, no matter what your age.
October 18, 2011
I won a copy of A Girl Named Willow Krimble in a Goodreads giveaway, and it took me a little while to get around to reading it. When I finally did pick it up, it took me a few chapters to really get into the story. I think this was because the main character was a little younger than I'm typically used to reading. However, once I got into the story, I really enjoyed it quite a lot.
Willow was a very likable character. She's kind and caring, and often puts others ahead of herself. She also doesn't let her disability hinder her. She could be something of a pushover at times, but rather than finding that frustrating, as can often be the case, I found her to be extremely easy to relate to.
The story itself was pretty interesting. There were many things throughout the story that were typical for a teenager, which was fine, but it was the mysterious element that really hooked me into the story.
Without really any sort of notable catalyst, Willow finds herself suddenly able to heal others. This resulted in some very touching moments and exchanges throughout the book.
There were a lot of heavy issues touched upon throughout the book, but there was also a host of colorful characters to balance out the situations. In the end, I found it to be a very sweet and touching story that was a real treat to read.
Willow was a very likable character. She's kind and caring, and often puts others ahead of herself. She also doesn't let her disability hinder her. She could be something of a pushover at times, but rather than finding that frustrating, as can often be the case, I found her to be extremely easy to relate to.
The story itself was pretty interesting. There were many things throughout the story that were typical for a teenager, which was fine, but it was the mysterious element that really hooked me into the story.
Without really any sort of notable catalyst, Willow finds herself suddenly able to heal others. This resulted in some very touching moments and exchanges throughout the book.
There were a lot of heavy issues touched upon throughout the book, but there was also a host of colorful characters to balance out the situations. In the end, I found it to be a very sweet and touching story that was a real treat to read.
September 14, 2011
Such a cute, sweet book.
I was asked to review A Girl Named Willow Krimble, by author Giuseppe Bianco, months ago. I finally picked it up, and I can't believe how much I loved it! I've not read a lot of middle grade novels. I loved Harry Potter and The Spiderwick Chronicles, but they're fantasy. There's fun and magic. But I've not enjoyed many middle grade contemporary novels. Even though there is a bit of magic in this novel, it's definitely a contemporary.
Willow is a thirteen-year-old girl who finds she has the uncanny ability to heal people. Anything from a small cut or scrape up to Alzheimer's. She has a disability, a prosthetic leg, yet she doesn't let that stop her from being an amazing girl with a lot of strength. I found, even at 28, that I related to Willow. Or, rather, the memory of my tween self related to her. While many of the events in her life are very different than mine were, the effects were very similar. I loved her relationship with Razzel. Such good friends are hard to come by.
I was asked to review A Girl Named Willow Krimble, by author Giuseppe Bianco, months ago. I finally picked it up, and I can't believe how much I loved it! I've not read a lot of middle grade novels. I loved Harry Potter and The Spiderwick Chronicles, but they're fantasy. There's fun and magic. But I've not enjoyed many middle grade contemporary novels. Even though there is a bit of magic in this novel, it's definitely a contemporary.
Willow is a thirteen-year-old girl who finds she has the uncanny ability to heal people. Anything from a small cut or scrape up to Alzheimer's. She has a disability, a prosthetic leg, yet she doesn't let that stop her from being an amazing girl with a lot of strength. I found, even at 28, that I related to Willow. Or, rather, the memory of my tween self related to her. While many of the events in her life are very different than mine were, the effects were very similar. I loved her relationship with Razzel. Such good friends are hard to come by.
February 14, 2012
When I was contacted by Giuseppe Bianco and asked to read and review his novel, I read the synopsis and was immediately intrigued. I haven't read a lot of MG, but I was excited to give this one a try. And boy, am I happy that I did! :)
Willow Krimble is a wonderfully-written book with a beautiful message. The main character, Willow, is immediately likable. She's so sweet and always worries about others before herself, often putting her own needs and wants to the side. From page 1 I was hooked on the story, anxiously awaiting what would occur on the following page.
I do wish Giuseppe Bianco had gone a bit further into her "gift", but after seeing this is book #1 of the Willow Krimble series I'm anxious to read book #2! And I have to mention, the ending was wonderful. It definitely leaves you wanting more. :)
I will be passing this book on to my 14 year old niece as well. I think it has a wonderful lesson that many middle grade readers, as well as others, can learn. I would highly recommend this book to others.
Willow Krimble is a wonderfully-written book with a beautiful message. The main character, Willow, is immediately likable. She's so sweet and always worries about others before herself, often putting her own needs and wants to the side. From page 1 I was hooked on the story, anxiously awaiting what would occur on the following page.
I do wish Giuseppe Bianco had gone a bit further into her "gift", but after seeing this is book #1 of the Willow Krimble series I'm anxious to read book #2! And I have to mention, the ending was wonderful. It definitely leaves you wanting more. :)
I will be passing this book on to my 14 year old niece as well. I think it has a wonderful lesson that many middle grade readers, as well as others, can learn. I would highly recommend this book to others.
August 12, 2011
I just finished this book with remorse...
only because there weren't more pages left to read!
I don't like to admit it, but I expected this book to be your run-of-the-mill young adult book. Instead, I was very pleasantly mistaken and found it to be a beautifully wrapped offering with layers of character, virtue and good old fashioned heartfelt storytelling.
As I'm sitting here trying to write a review for this book, I'm struggling because I honestly can not do this book justice. To try to describe this story is like trying to describe every single bite of a heavenly, delicious, cold, rich, ice cream sundae... It's better experienced for one's self!
I'd recommend this book to tweens and young adults of all ages, even grey haired ones. Do yourself a favor and dive in. Savor every bite of this delicious tale. And while you're at it, grab a few kids and their friends. Or maybe a library story hour full. There's nothing like sharing a treat.
Bravo Mr. Bianco!
only because there weren't more pages left to read!
I don't like to admit it, but I expected this book to be your run-of-the-mill young adult book. Instead, I was very pleasantly mistaken and found it to be a beautifully wrapped offering with layers of character, virtue and good old fashioned heartfelt storytelling.
As I'm sitting here trying to write a review for this book, I'm struggling because I honestly can not do this book justice. To try to describe this story is like trying to describe every single bite of a heavenly, delicious, cold, rich, ice cream sundae... It's better experienced for one's self!
I'd recommend this book to tweens and young adults of all ages, even grey haired ones. Do yourself a favor and dive in. Savor every bite of this delicious tale. And while you're at it, grab a few kids and their friends. Or maybe a library story hour full. There's nothing like sharing a treat.
Bravo Mr. Bianco!
June 1, 2013
I won this book on goodreads. This story is directed to readers between 10-14 year old, but as a 29 year old male, I loved this book. With the opening of the story the reader is introduced to Willow Krimble and instantly falls in love with this caring soul. Chapter after chapter you grow in respect for how Willow faces hard choices and deals with her speacial gift while she is only in the 8th grade. Willow teaches us of the power of frienship, forgivness, and love. This book is a fast read for any age and i recomend this book to anyone who wants a touching story through the eyes of a special young girl. I cannot wait for the next book so I can see what is in store for the charcters.
July 23, 2011
This was one of the sweetest books that I've read in a long time. Though I think it was written more for teenagers, I still enjoyed it immensely. Following Willow as she goes through many trials and tribulations is a very interesting journey, and I enjoyed watching her grow up into a very caring and compassionate young lady. Even though she had many reasons to be selfish, she focused all of her energy trying to help others. In today's society, that is something that you don't see anymore, and this book was very refreshing to read.
July 20, 2011
This is a lovely feel good book. Beautifully written, easy to follow and perfect for snuggling up with after a long day with a hot drink.
This wonderful book features a young girl who discovers one day that she can heal others. You grow to love the characters and I hope they will feature in more books. I cant wait to read more about the feisty Razzel, Caring Willow, and what happens in the future with Trist?
Throughly enjoyable read and highly recommended
This wonderful book features a young girl who discovers one day that she can heal others. You grow to love the characters and I hope they will feature in more books. I cant wait to read more about the feisty Razzel, Caring Willow, and what happens in the future with Trist?
Throughly enjoyable read and highly recommended
October 8, 2011
I won this on a Goodreads Firstreads Giveaway. Very nice book. It was nice to read a book with an interesting premise. Very nicely written and easy to read. I loved the characters - especially Willow and Razz. I like the way the story ended and that there could be a sequel, but there doesn't have to be because the book didn't leave you hanging. It was nice to read something without foul language too!
May 21, 2015
I really enjoyed reading this book. It was a quick easy read and the characters were very enjoyable. I would like to have my 9 year old daughter read this as I think there are some great messages conveyed throughout the book.
June 25, 2011
A fantastic tween read appealing to realistic and fantasy readers alike. The well-developed characters will stay with you long after the book's end - keeping you hoping for sequels to come! Check out why Willow Krimble is not your ordinary teenage girl!
June 25, 2011
Excellent book! Readers fall in love with Willow from the start. Great story, great characters - a must read!
July 15, 2011
I really enjoyed this book, it was a nice easy read with characters you can relate to. I'll definitely look out for book 2!
May 23, 2012
I fell in love with the characters right away. Willow and Razzle were to wonderful characters. The storyline kept we reading!
January 4, 2020
I guess it is a good book for teenagers.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 21, 2021
Really motivational and super nice book. Loved it! Recommend for pre-teens.
February 13, 2022
At times, I was unsure of what age the main character Willow was supposed to be as her thoughts were very ‘adult like.’ Overall, it was a quick read and I thought it was okay.
April 21, 2024
Best book for first time readers. If you don't have experience in reading English before, try it
June 25, 2011
**NOTE: there are some minor spoilers ahead. Nothing that gives the whole book away, but a few things I couldn't really leave out while writing this review**
This was a highly enjoyable middle grade book, which the author was nice enough to send me. Anyone can read it for free online on the Willow Krimble website, but there's something about holding onto a book that really helps me get into a story. So, straight off, THANK YOU to Guiseppe Bianco for sending me a copy of this great book!
Onto the story- there is so much going on here that I love that it's hard to know where to start. At the heart of the story is Willow Krimble, a rather unassuming 8th grader who has a pretty good life, a great family and a fabulous best friend named Razzel. Life is never quite as easy as it seems though. Willow deals with the normal teenage angst, boys that you kind of hate but maybe really like, mean girls that take advantage and bully you at school, and family problems and heartache that can come from losing a parent. Plus she has some not so run-of-the-mill issues. For one, she has only one leg and this makes her a target for taunting and also makes her self conscious sometimes. She also finds herself dealing with a mysterious skill, one that could be seen as a blessing or a curse, the ability to heal people by simply touching them. Still, where other people might become the victim, I never felt like Willow was. She is picked on by the mean girls of her school, but she is never broken. She could have shied away from using her skill, but instead she seeks out some words of advice at her church adn decides to embrace it, and change the lives of those she can. Even her worst enemy, who once upon a time was a friend. I adored that about Willow. She was a strong, independent, well adjusted kid who was loyal to her friends and who would do just about anything to help someone in need, including paralyzing some imaginary bats for a patient at the hospital.
Willow was not the only great character at work here. Razzel her best friend was always ready to defend her against bullies, and beyond that, Razzel was ready to defend anyone she saw as being picked on. It's good to have those people out there, even if they do have a little trouble controlling their anger sometimes. Even Shayla, a member of the mean girls clique, isn't one dementional. As the story proceeds we see how and why she ended up the way she is, and we see her trying to find her way back to a better place. Snella, Grandma Trish, Wyatt, the parents (who I will talk about in a minute) Mrs. Protts and Tristan are all characters that directly impact Willow in some way and despite being secondary players they are all given a chance to be fully developed. It's really great to see, every character is there for a reason, even if it's only for a few passages here and there.
Now for the parents. For anyone who has been reading this blog, you already know I have a hang up about parents in YA and Middle Grade books. I hate the bad parents, the absentee parents and the way they are used to make the leading lady seem like she is alone and needs to be rescued by some mysterious, brooding boy. I was so happy that we didn't see that here! Here we see some absolutely amazing parents who are involved and enganged with their kids, even as they try to hold down a job and put food on the table. Mrs. Krimble is busy being a single mom to two teens. She's busy, she's overworked and I'm sure she misses her husband. Still, she makes time to spend with her kids, she's ready to help them if they need it and she's paying attention enough to see when something is wrong. So. Refreshing. Mr. Krimble on the other hand is not around. Having died from Leukemia a few years earlier he is absent as his daughter finds herself dealing with her new powers. Bianco still amanges to make his presence felt through a few well times flashbacks. We see him at Willows birthday, 6 years in the past, already ill and trying to have some closure with his daughter. He knows he won't live long, and he wants Willow to know he loves her and that he believes in her. Even if she doesn't realize it at the time, he knows that he has to tell her these things because someday she might need to knw that he is watching down on her and is always on her side. I have to admit- I teared up a bit.
So, in short, bravo to Bianco for creating a character in Willow that I never felt sorry for despite her disability and the teasing she endures, and for putting some wonderful parents and friends beind her to help her get through it. This book is full of great messages about being yourself, finding great friends and standing by them, giving of yourself to help others and giving people a second chance. It's a book worth reading.
** Areadersramblings.blogspot.com **
This was a highly enjoyable middle grade book, which the author was nice enough to send me. Anyone can read it for free online on the Willow Krimble website, but there's something about holding onto a book that really helps me get into a story. So, straight off, THANK YOU to Guiseppe Bianco for sending me a copy of this great book!
Onto the story- there is so much going on here that I love that it's hard to know where to start. At the heart of the story is Willow Krimble, a rather unassuming 8th grader who has a pretty good life, a great family and a fabulous best friend named Razzel. Life is never quite as easy as it seems though. Willow deals with the normal teenage angst, boys that you kind of hate but maybe really like, mean girls that take advantage and bully you at school, and family problems and heartache that can come from losing a parent. Plus she has some not so run-of-the-mill issues. For one, she has only one leg and this makes her a target for taunting and also makes her self conscious sometimes. She also finds herself dealing with a mysterious skill, one that could be seen as a blessing or a curse, the ability to heal people by simply touching them. Still, where other people might become the victim, I never felt like Willow was. She is picked on by the mean girls of her school, but she is never broken. She could have shied away from using her skill, but instead she seeks out some words of advice at her church adn decides to embrace it, and change the lives of those she can. Even her worst enemy, who once upon a time was a friend. I adored that about Willow. She was a strong, independent, well adjusted kid who was loyal to her friends and who would do just about anything to help someone in need, including paralyzing some imaginary bats for a patient at the hospital.
Willow was not the only great character at work here. Razzel her best friend was always ready to defend her against bullies, and beyond that, Razzel was ready to defend anyone she saw as being picked on. It's good to have those people out there, even if they do have a little trouble controlling their anger sometimes. Even Shayla, a member of the mean girls clique, isn't one dementional. As the story proceeds we see how and why she ended up the way she is, and we see her trying to find her way back to a better place. Snella, Grandma Trish, Wyatt, the parents (who I will talk about in a minute) Mrs. Protts and Tristan are all characters that directly impact Willow in some way and despite being secondary players they are all given a chance to be fully developed. It's really great to see, every character is there for a reason, even if it's only for a few passages here and there.
Now for the parents. For anyone who has been reading this blog, you already know I have a hang up about parents in YA and Middle Grade books. I hate the bad parents, the absentee parents and the way they are used to make the leading lady seem like she is alone and needs to be rescued by some mysterious, brooding boy. I was so happy that we didn't see that here! Here we see some absolutely amazing parents who are involved and enganged with their kids, even as they try to hold down a job and put food on the table. Mrs. Krimble is busy being a single mom to two teens. She's busy, she's overworked and I'm sure she misses her husband. Still, she makes time to spend with her kids, she's ready to help them if they need it and she's paying attention enough to see when something is wrong. So. Refreshing. Mr. Krimble on the other hand is not around. Having died from Leukemia a few years earlier he is absent as his daughter finds herself dealing with her new powers. Bianco still amanges to make his presence felt through a few well times flashbacks. We see him at Willows birthday, 6 years in the past, already ill and trying to have some closure with his daughter. He knows he won't live long, and he wants Willow to know he loves her and that he believes in her. Even if she doesn't realize it at the time, he knows that he has to tell her these things because someday she might need to knw that he is watching down on her and is always on her side. I have to admit- I teared up a bit.
So, in short, bravo to Bianco for creating a character in Willow that I never felt sorry for despite her disability and the teasing she endures, and for putting some wonderful parents and friends beind her to help her get through it. This book is full of great messages about being yourself, finding great friends and standing by them, giving of yourself to help others and giving people a second chance. It's a book worth reading.
** Areadersramblings.blogspot.com **
April 12, 2013
(This review can also be found on my blog The (Mis)Adventures of a Twenty-Something Year Old Girl).
Okay, so I'm addicted to blog book comps. That's no secret. When I came across a blog giving away a copy of a book entitled A Girl Named Willow Krimble, I was intrigued by the whole synopsis. It sounded super cool, and I definitely was not disappointed one bit after reading this book.
Willow Krimble is a 13 year old girl with a big heart. She tries to see the best in everyone and tries to help out in whatever she can. One day, when a neighbor falls ill, Willow realizes that she's got the unique ability to heal others. Not knowing where these powers came from, Willow must keep her ability from others lest they think she is crazy.
I love the simplicity of the title. The book is about exactly what it says in the title: A Girl Named Willow Krimble. Okay, I know it's not very original, but it definitely suits this book.
I love the cartoon style of the cover. I think a lot of middle graders would find this cover very appealing instead of just some photo of a random girl. The artwork on the cover is amazing even if Willow does appear to be older on the cover than just 13 years.
The world building is very much believable. Willow sees her world as I imagine a 13 year old girl would. The situations Willow found herself in seemed to be very real, and I had no problems imagining the scenes.
I thought the pacing in this novel was superb! Usually, when I read middle grade novels, I try to put myself in that sort of mind frame. However, as an adult, I still loved the pacing. Not one point in the book did I find myself becoming bored or wishing I hadn't started reading this book.
I loved all the characters and thought Mr. Biano did an excellent job bringing them to life. I loved the fact that Willow had a disability but didn't let that stop her. She had a big heart and wanted to share her happiness with the world. I found Razzel, Willow's best friend, to be quite the character. I loved her feistiness and the way she was very protective of Willow. Razzel was such a strong kick-butt character, and I fell in love with how funny and great she was. I'd say she was definitely my favorite character. Wyatt, Willow's older brother, made me chuckle a lot of the time as well. I love how he was constantly eating all the time...well, most of the time. Shayla was definitely an interesting character that I enjoyed. I won't go into too much detail though because I don't want to give anything away.
The dialogue between characters was fun to read. I loved the dialogue between Razzel and Willow the most though because of the chemistry between them. You could definitely tell how much they cared for each other. Do be aware that there are a couple of swear words but nothing major.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading A Girl Named Willow Krimble by Giuseppe Bianco. It is such a heartwarming read, and one I think everyone will enjoy. The only minor annoyance I had was most of the characters had such unusual names. But as I stated previously, that's just a minor thing that doesn't really take anything away from the book.
I'd recommend this book to everyone aged 13+ as it's such a lovely and warming read.
Overall, I'd give A Girl Named Willow Krimble (Willow Krimble #1) by Giuseppe Bianco a 4.75 out of 5.
Okay, so I'm addicted to blog book comps. That's no secret. When I came across a blog giving away a copy of a book entitled A Girl Named Willow Krimble, I was intrigued by the whole synopsis. It sounded super cool, and I definitely was not disappointed one bit after reading this book.
Willow Krimble is a 13 year old girl with a big heart. She tries to see the best in everyone and tries to help out in whatever she can. One day, when a neighbor falls ill, Willow realizes that she's got the unique ability to heal others. Not knowing where these powers came from, Willow must keep her ability from others lest they think she is crazy.
I love the simplicity of the title. The book is about exactly what it says in the title: A Girl Named Willow Krimble. Okay, I know it's not very original, but it definitely suits this book.
I love the cartoon style of the cover. I think a lot of middle graders would find this cover very appealing instead of just some photo of a random girl. The artwork on the cover is amazing even if Willow does appear to be older on the cover than just 13 years.
The world building is very much believable. Willow sees her world as I imagine a 13 year old girl would. The situations Willow found herself in seemed to be very real, and I had no problems imagining the scenes.
I thought the pacing in this novel was superb! Usually, when I read middle grade novels, I try to put myself in that sort of mind frame. However, as an adult, I still loved the pacing. Not one point in the book did I find myself becoming bored or wishing I hadn't started reading this book.
I loved all the characters and thought Mr. Biano did an excellent job bringing them to life. I loved the fact that Willow had a disability but didn't let that stop her. She had a big heart and wanted to share her happiness with the world. I found Razzel, Willow's best friend, to be quite the character. I loved her feistiness and the way she was very protective of Willow. Razzel was such a strong kick-butt character, and I fell in love with how funny and great she was. I'd say she was definitely my favorite character. Wyatt, Willow's older brother, made me chuckle a lot of the time as well. I love how he was constantly eating all the time...well, most of the time. Shayla was definitely an interesting character that I enjoyed. I won't go into too much detail though because I don't want to give anything away.
The dialogue between characters was fun to read. I loved the dialogue between Razzel and Willow the most though because of the chemistry between them. You could definitely tell how much they cared for each other. Do be aware that there are a couple of swear words but nothing major.
Overall, I really enjoyed reading A Girl Named Willow Krimble by Giuseppe Bianco. It is such a heartwarming read, and one I think everyone will enjoy. The only minor annoyance I had was most of the characters had such unusual names. But as I stated previously, that's just a minor thing that doesn't really take anything away from the book.
I'd recommend this book to everyone aged 13+ as it's such a lovely and warming read.
Overall, I'd give A Girl Named Willow Krimble (Willow Krimble #1) by Giuseppe Bianco a 4.75 out of 5.
August 19, 2020
What would you do if your tormentor lay dying on the side of the road and you were the only one who could save them? Tough question, I know, but this is just one of many situations Willow Krimble must face in her life. Originally published as a web novel, Giuseppe Bianco’s A Girl Named Willow Krimble focuses on the titular protagonist as she tries to navigate middle school bullies, a prosthetic leg, and a newly discovered ability to heal people.
Willow lives with her mother and older brother, Wyatt; she loves hanging out with her best friend, the feisty and sarcastic Razzel, and she has a close relationship with her grandmother. Seems pretty normal, right? It might be if the two most popular girls in middle school, Shayla and Snella, didn’t taunt and remind her on a daily basis that she was born without her left leg. Forced to maneuver through obstacles most teenagers would not need to tackle, Willow is suddenly blessed (or cursed?) with the unusual power to heal others through touch. Ever selfless, Willow’s desire to help the injured and sick thrusts her into a world where she is given immense responsibility, putting the needs of others before her own, all the while trying to maintain her secret. Willow’s adolescent journey takes her through an emotional cyclone where she finds joy and purpose in helping an array of patients from an old man with Alzheimer’s to a mauled animal in a pet store. But Willow soon finds out there are limitations to her ability and, no matter how hard she might try, she cannot save everyone.
When I say that this is a book that anyone can read, I truly mean anyone! I first read this book when it was published in 2011, then I read it again in 2012, and just continually find myself rereading it over and over again throughout the years. The characters are well written, and the plot will keep any reader intrigued from start to finish. Additionally, themes of spreading kindness to others, being grateful for what you have, and not to compare yourself to others, all converge together to create a cute and funny middle grade novel.
There is a bit of irony to the fact that a girl who is disabled has the power to heal others; however, it only highlights Willow’s caring and selfless nature as she progressively becomes more aware of the people around her and the hardships they struggle with. The joy and sorrow Willow feels translates so well to the reader and makes her such a fun and relatable character to read about.
Overall, this book was so heartwarming and might even bring on some tears at certain points! This book is amazing and sends a great message for kids, teens, and adults alike! Willow is a girl that everyone in the world should meet and I cannot wait to see what may be next for her!
Willow lives with her mother and older brother, Wyatt; she loves hanging out with her best friend, the feisty and sarcastic Razzel, and she has a close relationship with her grandmother. Seems pretty normal, right? It might be if the two most popular girls in middle school, Shayla and Snella, didn’t taunt and remind her on a daily basis that she was born without her left leg. Forced to maneuver through obstacles most teenagers would not need to tackle, Willow is suddenly blessed (or cursed?) with the unusual power to heal others through touch. Ever selfless, Willow’s desire to help the injured and sick thrusts her into a world where she is given immense responsibility, putting the needs of others before her own, all the while trying to maintain her secret. Willow’s adolescent journey takes her through an emotional cyclone where she finds joy and purpose in helping an array of patients from an old man with Alzheimer’s to a mauled animal in a pet store. But Willow soon finds out there are limitations to her ability and, no matter how hard she might try, she cannot save everyone.
When I say that this is a book that anyone can read, I truly mean anyone! I first read this book when it was published in 2011, then I read it again in 2012, and just continually find myself rereading it over and over again throughout the years. The characters are well written, and the plot will keep any reader intrigued from start to finish. Additionally, themes of spreading kindness to others, being grateful for what you have, and not to compare yourself to others, all converge together to create a cute and funny middle grade novel.
There is a bit of irony to the fact that a girl who is disabled has the power to heal others; however, it only highlights Willow’s caring and selfless nature as she progressively becomes more aware of the people around her and the hardships they struggle with. The joy and sorrow Willow feels translates so well to the reader and makes her such a fun and relatable character to read about.
Overall, this book was so heartwarming and might even bring on some tears at certain points! This book is amazing and sends a great message for kids, teens, and adults alike! Willow is a girl that everyone in the world should meet and I cannot wait to see what may be next for her!
May 16, 2017
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September 21, 2011
I loved this story from start to finish! Willow is an awesome character I just fell in love with. Razzel her beat friend is just as amazing and her polar opposite.
Great story.
Great story.
August 31, 2022
Not much can be said about such a perfect book. Just read it, that’s all I can say
May 31, 2017
a very simple but amazing story, suitable for children and adults of any age.
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