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Two Kids
Tall, gawky, and twelve, D.C. Blau stumbles into her cousin Becky’s birthday party wearing a neon yellow T-shirt so bright it could burn someone’s eyeballs out. Towering above the boys there and self-conscious about her height, she prefers to think that it’s the boys who are the outliers, that Becky has more “dwarf” friends than Snow White -- but one among them catches her eye, Rob, a definite Bashful. Strangely, though they’ve never before met, the tall girl and the shy boy take to each other like long lost pals. So begins an unusual tweenage friendship, one that carries the two kids though a year both terrible and wonderful. There’s banter, and fun with fantasy. Ballplayers so huge they’re named after mountains. An island populated with up-chucking vampire birds. Freaky fortunes from a funky fortune-teller lady. A flukey fishing trip, and a rollicking, roller-coaster of a small plane ride. Father’s Day blues. And in the end, a climactic, life-changing event that spirals down from “out of the blue.”
- GenresYoung Adult
246 pages, Paperback
First published June 2, 2014
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 3, 2015
Two Kids is a coming-of-age journey through the lives of Rob and D.C. as they forge a lasting friendship, overcome great loss, and discover the ups and downs of growing up.
During the summer before 7th grade D.C. attends her cousin's birthday party where she meets Rob. The two hit it off right from the start, but after the party the two fail to keep in touch. Over the remaining summer months tragedy strikes both of their families. When school begins Rob is surprised and grateful to see D.C. who has moved to the area and now attends his school. Their friendship deepens and happiness soon replaces the sorrow each experienced. The whirlwind year of field trips, plane rides, carnivals, school dances, and budding romance comes to an end as tragedy strikes yet again. Will Rob and D.C.'s friendship survive?
Two Kids explores the lives of two 12-year-old children and the struggles of growing up. The story is told from the perspective of the different characters which effectively gives readers and in-depth look at their thoughts and feelings. I felt the characters were well developed and got a kick out of their silly willy rhyming banter of made up names and words. I believe it shows just how special the friendship between Rob and D.C. is as well as the closeness Rob shares with his sister, even though he describes her as devilish. The story addresses many issues facing tweens and I found it to be an all around enjoyable read.
I recommend picking up a copy.
During the summer before 7th grade D.C. attends her cousin's birthday party where she meets Rob. The two hit it off right from the start, but after the party the two fail to keep in touch. Over the remaining summer months tragedy strikes both of their families. When school begins Rob is surprised and grateful to see D.C. who has moved to the area and now attends his school. Their friendship deepens and happiness soon replaces the sorrow each experienced. The whirlwind year of field trips, plane rides, carnivals, school dances, and budding romance comes to an end as tragedy strikes yet again. Will Rob and D.C.'s friendship survive?
Two Kids explores the lives of two 12-year-old children and the struggles of growing up. The story is told from the perspective of the different characters which effectively gives readers and in-depth look at their thoughts and feelings. I felt the characters were well developed and got a kick out of their silly willy rhyming banter of made up names and words. I believe it shows just how special the friendship between Rob and D.C. is as well as the closeness Rob shares with his sister, even though he describes her as devilish. The story addresses many issues facing tweens and I found it to be an all around enjoyable read.
I recommend picking up a copy.
January 16, 2015
In Two Friends, Author Richard Levine introduces us to tween angst, camaraderie, and loss in his tale of friendship between gawky DC Blau and shy Rob Cameron, who meet and become pals at a birthday party one summer in a Long Island town.
Levine’s book follows their blossoming friendship during a yearlong period and introduces us to their families, neighborhood, and school. The narrative ping-pongs between the two protagonists in their first-person voices, so readers understand both views of the same situation. This technique allows readers to truly get into the minds of this tween boy and girl. The back-and-forth arc flows through most chapters and is generally effective. I was confused initially when the author added first-person views from other characters, but I understood as the book progressed (no spoiler given!).
The author’s narrative is strongest during internal monologues. Rob’s recounting of a family vacation to Carolina’s Outer Banks is a moving, sweet tribute to his father. Likewise, his projection of a what-if future speaks volumes to adults and young readers about optimism and perseverance. One of my favorite vignettes involves Rob’s unique way of helping a cash-strapped family remember their trip to Disney World as he also uncovers the depth of his father’s commitment to their town.
Levine brings a rich sense of place to his Long Island Sound setting, inserting kid-friendly escapades on the water and snippets of life in this close-knit community. He also supplies enough action to keep tweens interested: baseball games, fishing trips, first dates and kisses, and family tragedies.
The book would be stronger if it eliminated most of its clichés, nicknames, and acronymns. These devices were often confusing and difficult to understand, especially beyond a certain age and outside a USA culture. I don’t believe kids would understand or appreciate many of them:
Wouldn’t want to meet a mamba, ’cause if an African mamba gets you, it’s as the man from Odd says, “Say good night, Gracie.”
Recommendation
Two Kids provides upper-elementary and middle-school readers with relatable characters and a plot into which they can sink their teeth. Be aware: since Two Kids deals with death, sensitive young readers who recently experienced a loss may be disturbed by elements of the book.
Disclosure
I was provided with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Levine’s book follows their blossoming friendship during a yearlong period and introduces us to their families, neighborhood, and school. The narrative ping-pongs between the two protagonists in their first-person voices, so readers understand both views of the same situation. This technique allows readers to truly get into the minds of this tween boy and girl. The back-and-forth arc flows through most chapters and is generally effective. I was confused initially when the author added first-person views from other characters, but I understood as the book progressed (no spoiler given!).
The author’s narrative is strongest during internal monologues. Rob’s recounting of a family vacation to Carolina’s Outer Banks is a moving, sweet tribute to his father. Likewise, his projection of a what-if future speaks volumes to adults and young readers about optimism and perseverance. One of my favorite vignettes involves Rob’s unique way of helping a cash-strapped family remember their trip to Disney World as he also uncovers the depth of his father’s commitment to their town.
Levine brings a rich sense of place to his Long Island Sound setting, inserting kid-friendly escapades on the water and snippets of life in this close-knit community. He also supplies enough action to keep tweens interested: baseball games, fishing trips, first dates and kisses, and family tragedies.
The book would be stronger if it eliminated most of its clichés, nicknames, and acronymns. These devices were often confusing and difficult to understand, especially beyond a certain age and outside a USA culture. I don’t believe kids would understand or appreciate many of them:
Wouldn’t want to meet a mamba, ’cause if an African mamba gets you, it’s as the man from Odd says, “Say good night, Gracie.”
Recommendation
Two Kids provides upper-elementary and middle-school readers with relatable characters and a plot into which they can sink their teeth. Be aware: since Two Kids deals with death, sensitive young readers who recently experienced a loss may be disturbed by elements of the book.
Disclosure
I was provided with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 11, 2015
D.C. and Rob form a sweet friendship at the beginning of this story, then go through quite a few hardships together as the book goes on. The descriptions are vivid, and I really felt like I was there, in each scene. There were some acronyms and cliché's that I felt were not really necessary to the story and in some cases were quite distracting to me. I think the author may have been trying to speak "tweenese", but as an adult, I didn't really get it. This is a book that I will let my 11 and 13 year old read, and I think they will enjoy it. I love finding new books for my kids that are clean and relatable. It was a sweet story with hardship and tragedy in each of the main characters lives, and it really showed how to be a good friend.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 9, 2015
How painful are those awkward years when your body is growing and "geekieness" seems to always be tripping you up. The story of DC and Rob begins one summer day. DC has just moved to town and her cousin is having an end of school party. Do you remember what it is like when those boy and girl parties first began?
Meet DC, she is a "too-tall, out-of-town girl." Her dad's candy store T-shirt is bright yellow which causes her to stand out (as if being tall doesn't). DC has a little brother, a baby sister on the way, and a father who thinks he's funny (weird humor). Her father is taking time off for the move and enjoys flying a small plane just for fun, of course many of his references are connected to flying in one way or another. DC considers her Captain Strangedad as an alien from the Planet Odd. Her mother is thirty five and pregnant. And, her little brother, Tommy is quite the artist. There are so many changes during this summer. DC begins enjoying their new home and a life of leisure, until the morning she finds her mother not responding.
Meet Rob, he wonders how he missed the new "tall, pretty, and wearing a T-shirt that's so bright it just might burn your eyeballs out." Rob has his own type of humor, especially when he creates headlines for certain situations (Kiss,N Tell Gazette: Party Over, Cheek Kisses Exchanged). Rob's little sister might only be six, but she has personality that causes everyone to take notice to her newly acquired intelligence. Rob has always played baseball, and yet this summer he finds his concentration "swings off" to DC. During a game of hoops, Rob is close to beating his dad for the very first time (10-0)... when his entire world comes crashing down.
Life's tragedies will always create a void, and yet, a willingness to be a friend will provide moments of hope, joy, and the strength to keep moving forward as your parents begin a new season in their lives. Will this journey bring a happy ending or will it be only a fading memory for DC and Rob?
The enjoyment of their story is enhanced with so many great headlines, word play, and foreshadowing. Their naivety about life, summer romance, and tragedy resonates with days gone by. It's all about walking through tough days knowing "You've got a Friend!"
Enjoy DC and Rob's story,
MrsK http://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/
Meet DC, she is a "too-tall, out-of-town girl." Her dad's candy store T-shirt is bright yellow which causes her to stand out (as if being tall doesn't). DC has a little brother, a baby sister on the way, and a father who thinks he's funny (weird humor). Her father is taking time off for the move and enjoys flying a small plane just for fun, of course many of his references are connected to flying in one way or another. DC considers her Captain Strangedad as an alien from the Planet Odd. Her mother is thirty five and pregnant. And, her little brother, Tommy is quite the artist. There are so many changes during this summer. DC begins enjoying their new home and a life of leisure, until the morning she finds her mother not responding.
Meet Rob, he wonders how he missed the new "tall, pretty, and wearing a T-shirt that's so bright it just might burn your eyeballs out." Rob has his own type of humor, especially when he creates headlines for certain situations (Kiss,N Tell Gazette: Party Over, Cheek Kisses Exchanged). Rob's little sister might only be six, but she has personality that causes everyone to take notice to her newly acquired intelligence. Rob has always played baseball, and yet this summer he finds his concentration "swings off" to DC. During a game of hoops, Rob is close to beating his dad for the very first time (10-0)... when his entire world comes crashing down.
Life's tragedies will always create a void, and yet, a willingness to be a friend will provide moments of hope, joy, and the strength to keep moving forward as your parents begin a new season in their lives. Will this journey bring a happy ending or will it be only a fading memory for DC and Rob?
The enjoyment of their story is enhanced with so many great headlines, word play, and foreshadowing. Their naivety about life, summer romance, and tragedy resonates with days gone by. It's all about walking through tough days knowing "You've got a Friend!"
Enjoy DC and Rob's story,
MrsK http://mrskbookstogo.blogspot.com/
February 10, 2015
I feel extremely bad about posting this review and wish I didn't have to. I was given a copy of Two Kids in exchange for an honest review, so I am under an obligation.. I feel like I should apologize to the writer as I can tell that he clearly wrote this book from a place of love. Anyway, I have put this off as long as I can..
I wish I could say that I enjoyed Two Kids, but I really didn't. I had to read it in small doses in part due to the writing style. At times it felt like a rather long babble. Yes, children tend to babble. (I babble!) For example: It took several pages to describe a baseball scene. I know it was an attempt to bring the scene to life visually. I suppose it did that. But I found myself doing that thing where you speed read and think "yadda yadda yadda" in your head until you see you are at the end of the thought and something new is happening. It wasn't just a one time thing, it was fairly normal.
My true dislike comes from the continuing theme of loss. While I LOVED the friendship between Rob and D.C., the repeated theme of loss was too much for me. *SPOILER* OMG! Even the friendship was lost at the end when D.C. moved away!!!!! Maybe if there had been a true epilogue other than Rob's day dream of seeing her again... It was just too sad. These kids lost too many people.. over and over and over. I felt like the theme it was trying to show was that friendship and having someone else there to help you cope was something special. But then for that to be lost as well. No. *stomps foot* Just NO.
I come from a family of loss. I have lost several friends, relatives and a parent. I can relate to what these children experienced. I honestly feel like the repeated loss and ending didn't leave the reader with a feeling of hope for the future or strength. Just MORE loss. :( Missed opportunity on the writer's part to make this something amazing.
My final decision to give in and be 100% honest with my review vs sugar coating it came from asking myself one question. "Will I recommend this book to my best friend for his two children?" No. In fact, if he asked.. I would have to tell him to leave it on the shelf. I wouldn't have it in my heart to set his kids up to care about these two characters only to experience their losses and pain.. without a sense of hope and happiness at the end.
And.. BTW.. what the heck IS D.C.'s name?? *grr*
I wish I could say that I enjoyed Two Kids, but I really didn't. I had to read it in small doses in part due to the writing style. At times it felt like a rather long babble. Yes, children tend to babble. (I babble!) For example: It took several pages to describe a baseball scene. I know it was an attempt to bring the scene to life visually. I suppose it did that. But I found myself doing that thing where you speed read and think "yadda yadda yadda" in your head until you see you are at the end of the thought and something new is happening. It wasn't just a one time thing, it was fairly normal.
My true dislike comes from the continuing theme of loss. While I LOVED the friendship between Rob and D.C., the repeated theme of loss was too much for me. *SPOILER* OMG! Even the friendship was lost at the end when D.C. moved away!!!!! Maybe if there had been a true epilogue other than Rob's day dream of seeing her again... It was just too sad. These kids lost too many people.. over and over and over. I felt like the theme it was trying to show was that friendship and having someone else there to help you cope was something special. But then for that to be lost as well. No. *stomps foot* Just NO.
I come from a family of loss. I have lost several friends, relatives and a parent. I can relate to what these children experienced. I honestly feel like the repeated loss and ending didn't leave the reader with a feeling of hope for the future or strength. Just MORE loss. :( Missed opportunity on the writer's part to make this something amazing.
My final decision to give in and be 100% honest with my review vs sugar coating it came from asking myself one question. "Will I recommend this book to my best friend for his two children?" No. In fact, if he asked.. I would have to tell him to leave it on the shelf. I wouldn't have it in my heart to set his kids up to care about these two characters only to experience their losses and pain.. without a sense of hope and happiness at the end.
And.. BTW.. what the heck IS D.C.'s name?? *grr*
January 25, 2015
Two Kids is a fun, easy read, definitely something kids would enjoy (and I'm a BIG 57 year old kid). Levine gave me a genuine love for Rob and D.C., the two tween main characters who are best buddies but are coming of age as well. Their friendship is slowly stepping toward the next level, but neither of them seem to be in a hurry. D.C. is bursting with attitude, while Rob is the more laid back of the two. Rob has a sister, Mattie, who drives him nuts (didn't we all have a younger sibling like that), and D.C., if I remember correctly, has a younger brother named Tommy.
Hands down, the best part of this book is the imagery created by Levine. If an author can lose themselves in a scene, magic happens. This certainly occurred during the fast pitch softball game between the Long Island Lightning (D.C. is the pitcher) and the Island Breeze, which seems to have a line-up similar to the old "murderer's row" in the New York Yankees of old. For me it seemed I was listening to the game on a radio, that's how powerfully Levine scripted the scene. Another fantastic piece of prose occurs on a fishing trip. Someone's grandfather falls overboard, his son dives in to save him, and Rob follows him over the rail. The struggle to bring the man to the surface and the description of the freezing water really put me right there with them.
My only criticism lay in the chapter by chapter (or even within chapters) switch from D.C. to Rob and back. Levine handles the point of view changes well, but after a while the style repetition began to wear on me.
All in all, though, Two Kids is a fun book that tweens will relate to. We've all gone through D.C. and Rob's trials and triumphs, so anyone can relate to their adventures, relationship, and the emotional turmoil of growing up. I recommend this book to girls and boys of all ages (even 57).
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kevin Gerard - Award winning author of the Diego's Dragon middle grade fantasy series.
Hands down, the best part of this book is the imagery created by Levine. If an author can lose themselves in a scene, magic happens. This certainly occurred during the fast pitch softball game between the Long Island Lightning (D.C. is the pitcher) and the Island Breeze, which seems to have a line-up similar to the old "murderer's row" in the New York Yankees of old. For me it seemed I was listening to the game on a radio, that's how powerfully Levine scripted the scene. Another fantastic piece of prose occurs on a fishing trip. Someone's grandfather falls overboard, his son dives in to save him, and Rob follows him over the rail. The struggle to bring the man to the surface and the description of the freezing water really put me right there with them.
My only criticism lay in the chapter by chapter (or even within chapters) switch from D.C. to Rob and back. Levine handles the point of view changes well, but after a while the style repetition began to wear on me.
All in all, though, Two Kids is a fun book that tweens will relate to. We've all gone through D.C. and Rob's trials and triumphs, so anyone can relate to their adventures, relationship, and the emotional turmoil of growing up. I recommend this book to girls and boys of all ages (even 57).
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kevin Gerard - Award winning author of the Diego's Dragon middle grade fantasy series.
March 7, 2015
Two Kids covers a year in the lives of Rob and D.C., two twelve-year-olds who meet at a summertime birthday party. As a former extra-tall 12-year-old girl myself, I related to the main female character, D.C. (although I was all gawky, with none of D.C.'s athleticism or confidence). D.C. also experiences a tragedy in her life midway through the story that my family also experienced, and it's the details like these that drew me into the story.
This book reminds me a fair bit of one of my favorite children's books, Bridge to Terabithia – Rob and D.C. have vivid imaginations and create their own fantastic stories and make-believe games, yet there's also real-world personal tragedies that the kids must deal with. But the friendship between the two kids is strong, and this story shows how those friendships formed during that awkward heading-into-puberty time can turn into strong lifelong bonds.
The story was a lot longer than I expected it to be – I don't really look at page numbers with ebooks, I read enough that I usually know about how long a book will take me (depending on the target audience – adult, YA, middle grade, etc.). I expected this one to be about half the actual length given the target audience. That's neither a negative nor a positive, though. However, I do feel that a more imaginative title would have improved the book as a whole – I think the simplistic title also led me to believe that this would be a shorter, simpler book (with less tragedy and more of the fun parts of a coming-of-age story). Likewise, the cover art – I know, I know, don't judge a book by its cover. But we all do, and my expectations based on the title and the cover didn't match up with the actual contents of the book.
I received an ecopy of this book for my honest review; all opinions are my own.
This book reminds me a fair bit of one of my favorite children's books, Bridge to Terabithia – Rob and D.C. have vivid imaginations and create their own fantastic stories and make-believe games, yet there's also real-world personal tragedies that the kids must deal with. But the friendship between the two kids is strong, and this story shows how those friendships formed during that awkward heading-into-puberty time can turn into strong lifelong bonds.
The story was a lot longer than I expected it to be – I don't really look at page numbers with ebooks, I read enough that I usually know about how long a book will take me (depending on the target audience – adult, YA, middle grade, etc.). I expected this one to be about half the actual length given the target audience. That's neither a negative nor a positive, though. However, I do feel that a more imaginative title would have improved the book as a whole – I think the simplistic title also led me to believe that this would be a shorter, simpler book (with less tragedy and more of the fun parts of a coming-of-age story). Likewise, the cover art – I know, I know, don't judge a book by its cover. But we all do, and my expectations based on the title and the cover didn't match up with the actual contents of the book.
I received an ecopy of this book for my honest review; all opinions are my own.
March 5, 2015
Heart of a Philanthropist would like to thank Richard Levine for gifting us a copy of his book in exchange for an honest review. This review was first seen on Heart of a Philanthropist blog.
Two Kids is about two kids. But it is much more than that. DC meets Rob at a birthday party. (DC is a girl). She was dressed to impress kids with a flourescent yellow shirt on. She is taller than most kids which can be quite embarrassing at times. BUT, she runs into one short guy that she is attracted to, and their friendship quickly blossoms. Unfortunately, they part ways and don't see each other for quite some time.
Ever have one of those lives where it seems everything that could possibly go wrong does? That happens for DC and Rob, as they are living their separate lives. Friends moved, family death, grief, and growing up are all described in great detail. This book is written more for kids as there are texting abbreviations that all kids are familiar with, teenage fodder, and sibling rivalry. Eventually DC and Rob get back together, so that is good!
The author is excellent at explaining funny scenes. There were a few true to life scenes, as I have been pooped on by birds flying over my head before. (A flock of geese flew over me as I sat on a chair in the garden. Bad...) There is more than one perspective as there are multiple narrators in the story. I believe that boys and girls will both like Two Kids.
HoaP received Two Kids in exchange for an honest review. If you would like us to review a book/product for you, contact us at philanthropicHR@yahoo.com If you found this review helpful, please mark yes, as this helps others to find us easier. Thanks for reading and God Bless!
Two Kids is about two kids. But it is much more than that. DC meets Rob at a birthday party. (DC is a girl). She was dressed to impress kids with a flourescent yellow shirt on. She is taller than most kids which can be quite embarrassing at times. BUT, she runs into one short guy that she is attracted to, and their friendship quickly blossoms. Unfortunately, they part ways and don't see each other for quite some time.
Ever have one of those lives where it seems everything that could possibly go wrong does? That happens for DC and Rob, as they are living their separate lives. Friends moved, family death, grief, and growing up are all described in great detail. This book is written more for kids as there are texting abbreviations that all kids are familiar with, teenage fodder, and sibling rivalry. Eventually DC and Rob get back together, so that is good!
The author is excellent at explaining funny scenes. There were a few true to life scenes, as I have been pooped on by birds flying over my head before. (A flock of geese flew over me as I sat on a chair in the garden. Bad...) There is more than one perspective as there are multiple narrators in the story. I believe that boys and girls will both like Two Kids.
HoaP received Two Kids in exchange for an honest review. If you would like us to review a book/product for you, contact us at philanthropicHR@yahoo.com If you found this review helpful, please mark yes, as this helps others to find us easier. Thanks for reading and God Bless!
March 7, 2015
Two very different kids a cute boy and a gawky, smart girl become friends over the summer and school and learn about love and life along the way. The story is written in a first person account of both DC and Rob. They each share their thoughts and how they cope with the far reaching changes that take place.
Rob loses his father and how his life is impacted by it, how our life alters and yet even as children we continue to grow and adjust. DC faces loss when her mom loses a baby; both seeing life and death so closely and personally. It is not just a friend who lost some one, it is the children and how they share and grow.
Life throws a curve ball but we go with it, this book is perfect for twines as it talks about so many things going on in their young lives. Being a child is not easy and more so in the teens when are mind and body is growing, learning and changing.
Children will love this story as it talks about their life in such a fluid and easy manner, using their kind of language and sharing the way life is. The characters are well written and I related to them so easily, the teachers, friends and relatives all believable and true to life. It was really hilarious to read about them at times.
The book strikes a good balance with the emotions and fun. It really is about Two Kids and these two kids could be any one!
I highly recommend this book for parents and children so they both read and realize that no matter how bad things get in life, we must keep moving and ‘climb the mountain’!
I received Two Kids in exchange for an honest review. If you would like me to review a book for you, contact me at inderpreet.kaur.uppal@gmail.com If you found this review helpful, please mark yes, as this helps others know that I do Book reviews. Thanks for reading!
Rob loses his father and how his life is impacted by it, how our life alters and yet even as children we continue to grow and adjust. DC faces loss when her mom loses a baby; both seeing life and death so closely and personally. It is not just a friend who lost some one, it is the children and how they share and grow.
Life throws a curve ball but we go with it, this book is perfect for twines as it talks about so many things going on in their young lives. Being a child is not easy and more so in the teens when are mind and body is growing, learning and changing.
Children will love this story as it talks about their life in such a fluid and easy manner, using their kind of language and sharing the way life is. The characters are well written and I related to them so easily, the teachers, friends and relatives all believable and true to life. It was really hilarious to read about them at times.
The book strikes a good balance with the emotions and fun. It really is about Two Kids and these two kids could be any one!
I highly recommend this book for parents and children so they both read and realize that no matter how bad things get in life, we must keep moving and ‘climb the mountain’!
I received Two Kids in exchange for an honest review. If you would like me to review a book for you, contact me at inderpreet.kaur.uppal@gmail.com If you found this review helpful, please mark yes, as this helps others know that I do Book reviews. Thanks for reading!
December 2, 2014
Richard Levine’s Two Kids was a book that really warmed my heart. Classified as a middle grade novel, I am a young adult who really enjoyed it for my own age.
I thought that the book had a certain meaning to it including friendship. It showed how friendship could be the best kind of pain reliever. The main characters, D.C. and Rob, really could relate to any tween their age. All children will go through those awkward crushes, moments, and unforgetting tween years. These two kids show others that no matter what, you will always have a friend who will save you.
The one thing I was kind of confused on was the fact that sometimes they will say “IDK.” Not like, ‘I don’t know.’ literally ‘IDK.’ The book contained different words like “atchy-patchy bloo.” which I never minded because now I will randomly think it, but I didn’t like the idea of saying IDK.
The book follows these two kids on these different adventures from breaking hearts to flying to getting pooped on by smelly birds: an adventure that everyone would like to experience (except the whole bird fiasco). Nobody how old you are, you will find a character you will relate to, no matter your age. You could be 6, 12, 17, 43. No matter what, this is a heartfelt book to read.
P.S What is D.C’s name?!?!?!?!
I thought that the book had a certain meaning to it including friendship. It showed how friendship could be the best kind of pain reliever. The main characters, D.C. and Rob, really could relate to any tween their age. All children will go through those awkward crushes, moments, and unforgetting tween years. These two kids show others that no matter what, you will always have a friend who will save you.
The one thing I was kind of confused on was the fact that sometimes they will say “IDK.” Not like, ‘I don’t know.’ literally ‘IDK.’ The book contained different words like “atchy-patchy bloo.” which I never minded because now I will randomly think it, but I didn’t like the idea of saying IDK.
The book follows these two kids on these different adventures from breaking hearts to flying to getting pooped on by smelly birds: an adventure that everyone would like to experience (except the whole bird fiasco). Nobody how old you are, you will find a character you will relate to, no matter your age. You could be 6, 12, 17, 43. No matter what, this is a heartfelt book to read.
P.S What is D.C’s name?!?!?!?!
March 3, 2015
When I first started this I thought this was showcasing two kids one girl one boy in their pre-teen years, with the typical problems they have. D.C was tall (very) than most and super skinny so this made her stand out and when your young that's not always a goo thing. Then there Is Rob he is shy and has a hard time talking to girls. They meet one night at D.C.'s cousins party hitting it off right away. Discovering they would see each other again soon both were excited. Over the summer the pre-teens had yet to meet again, each having to deal with major life changing for one problems. Finally when school starts back they meet up and start where they leave off from the party building a friendship/relationship. Again tragedy strikes D.C. and this time will alter her and her families life. At the end each will learn something and move on with their lives but never forgetting.
This to me had so many lessons! The life of a young adult is hard so many new things happening within their own bodies and at the age where they can understand tragedy . One lesson is that one minute everything is find and then disaster hits and ruins it all. All in all a great book with great characters and one interesting storyline!
This to me had so many lessons! The life of a young adult is hard so many new things happening within their own bodies and at the age where they can understand tragedy . One lesson is that one minute everything is find and then disaster hits and ruins it all. All in all a great book with great characters and one interesting storyline!
February 16, 2015
Honestly, it took me forever to get in to Two Kids. With a couple of exceptions, nothing seems to really happen during the book. I looked for more plot, more action- something to keep the book moving along. Instead, Two Kids seems to be a lot of dialog during small scenes, that don't really add much action to the book. I found myself wishing many times that something more would happen.
In spite of that, the writing itself is spectacular. As the reader, I got to know each character, and felt like I set foot in each location. I couldn't have asked for a more detailed description. I did often find myself enjoying to read Two Kids. The characters were all so interesting, I wanted to get to know each and every one. I also felt like a part of the world they were in as I read about the places they were.
Overall, I'd give Two Kid's four out of five stars. If you're looking for an action packed read, I'd look elsewhere, but if you are looking for a great book for your kid to read about blossoming friendships, Two Kids is a great recommendation.
I was given a free copy of Two Kids in exchange for an honest review.
In spite of that, the writing itself is spectacular. As the reader, I got to know each character, and felt like I set foot in each location. I couldn't have asked for a more detailed description. I did often find myself enjoying to read Two Kids. The characters were all so interesting, I wanted to get to know each and every one. I also felt like a part of the world they were in as I read about the places they were.
Overall, I'd give Two Kid's four out of five stars. If you're looking for an action packed read, I'd look elsewhere, but if you are looking for a great book for your kid to read about blossoming friendships, Two Kids is a great recommendation.
I was given a free copy of Two Kids in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2015
Two kids takes you on a journey through the lives of ... two kids! DC a tall lanky young teenager and Rob the short, bashfal, teenager.
They both meet at DC's cousins party and then don't see each other for mths, then all of a sudden DC shows up at Rob's school.
They finally bump into each other and realize, yes they do know each other, and a friendship blossoms,
Facing their own tragedy in their own lives, and dealing with new normals, that friendship is kindling into a budding romance.
This book is very good for preteens and teenagers. Or even old folks ;like me.
I fell in love with their characters, they were fully developed and very defined, so you had no problems following the book It told from each tweens point of view. That was a very interesting way of writing the book for me, and one I have never really read before. I loved that part of the writing. Levine does a fantastic job in giving this age group a book that may go in a read over pile! I know I will read it again.
I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
They both meet at DC's cousins party and then don't see each other for mths, then all of a sudden DC shows up at Rob's school.
They finally bump into each other and realize, yes they do know each other, and a friendship blossoms,
Facing their own tragedy in their own lives, and dealing with new normals, that friendship is kindling into a budding romance.
This book is very good for preteens and teenagers. Or even old folks ;like me.
I fell in love with their characters, they were fully developed and very defined, so you had no problems following the book It told from each tweens point of view. That was a very interesting way of writing the book for me, and one I have never really read before. I loved that part of the writing. Levine does a fantastic job in giving this age group a book that may go in a read over pile! I know I will read it again.
I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for my honest review.
August 19, 2014
This is a nice story about friendship, fitting in and a little bit of innocent teenage crushes thrown in.
I think kids ages 10 to 14 (tweenies) will have no trouble feeling for the main characters and will sympathize with the uncomfortable situations that age group often has to deal with--not only their own bodies and friends, but also the strange oddities of parents and relatives.
The story itself has humorous as well as sobering moments as it ventures through the growing friendship of Ron and D.C. The dialogue is pretty well done and the scenes are well described. Although some episodes did seem to hold on a little longer than necessary, I felt for the characters and wondered what would happen next as they learned to cope with themselves and the world around them.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
I think kids ages 10 to 14 (tweenies) will have no trouble feeling for the main characters and will sympathize with the uncomfortable situations that age group often has to deal with--not only their own bodies and friends, but also the strange oddities of parents and relatives.
The story itself has humorous as well as sobering moments as it ventures through the growing friendship of Ron and D.C. The dialogue is pretty well done and the scenes are well described. Although some episodes did seem to hold on a little longer than necessary, I felt for the characters and wondered what would happen next as they learned to cope with themselves and the world around them.
I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 6, 2015
I found the book to be well-written and the two main characters, Rob and D.C. described in good detail. As these two tweens navigate their way through life, with all its trials, tribulations, and good parts too, they are also finding their way through getting to know each other, as well. I enjoyed reading the book and have passed it off to my 12-year-old daughter to read. She is enjoying it very much. This story is a great read for tweens as it is interesting without being written above their experience level. I would recommend it to any parents who are looking for books to encourage their children to read without worrying about negative or inappropriate content.
Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this ebook for purposes of review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.
Disclaimer: I was given a free copy of this ebook for purposes of review. No other compensation was received. All opinions are 100% my own.
March 7, 2015
First of all, I was impressed by the detailed and vivid descriptions that demonstrate the author's ingenious writing skills. The story unravels around characters and events that sound real and relatable, to both kids of similar age and adults who have gone through that stage of life with some unforgettable memory. The book is emotionally moving and attests to the power of friendship. It also teaches kids about the price to pay for growing up and how to deal with losses. I like the writing overall except for the switch back and forth between the two kids' first-person perspectives. It's refreshing at first but wears the readers out eventually. Still, I'd recommend this book to tweens and teens.
*I received a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. All views and opinions expressed are my own.*
*I received a copy of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. All views and opinions expressed are my own.*
January 22, 2015
Two Kids is a good book about friendship, relationships and family. D.C. and Rob become friends.D.C. lives with her parents and younger brother Tommy. Rob lives with his parents and little sister Mattie. During the summer, Rob's dad has a fatal heart attack,leaving him to deal with those feelings. He meets D.C. again after school starts. They become the best of friends. Reading about the ordinary happenings of these two 12 year-olds and their siblings is a joy. Tragedy sticks in two ways for D.C. and Rob. A plane crashes into D.C.'s parents house. Rob is able to rescue D.C. but not Tommy. D.C.'s parents move away. Rob and D.C. stay in touch writing letters. Their "what if" letters are very touching. It leaves room for another book!
February 27, 2015
D.C. noticed Rob at her cousin's twelfth birthday party. Later, during the party, a new, strong friendship began.
This touching, yet entertaining, explores the year in the life of two twelve year old, Long Island, NY youth. Many youth will be able to relate to the drama, conflicts,and interaction these youth experience.
The characters are endearing, with the various situations portrayed well. The book cover depicts the story content well while the book title lacks viewer attraction. Additional wording would add to viewer appeal. There were a few crude words many parents would not appreciate.
My Review of this book offers a Four and a Half Stars rating.
*I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review, of which I have given.
This touching, yet entertaining, explores the year in the life of two twelve year old, Long Island, NY youth. Many youth will be able to relate to the drama, conflicts,and interaction these youth experience.
The characters are endearing, with the various situations portrayed well. The book cover depicts the story content well while the book title lacks viewer attraction. Additional wording would add to viewer appeal. There were a few crude words many parents would not appreciate.
My Review of this book offers a Four and a Half Stars rating.
*I was sent this book in exchange for an honest review, of which I have given.
March 4, 2015
Two Kids BY Richard Levine
Two Kids is a great coming of age book. We follow DC who is tall for her age and feels out of place because of it. She meets Rob, who is a shy young man, at her cousins birthday party. The two of them hit it off and become friends. They loose touch after the party but Rob is happy to see DC when he starts school in September as she has moved to the area and is now in his school. The book follows these Two Kids on different adventures from flying, breaking hearts, to having smelly birds poop on them. But tragedy strikes. Will the two of them be able to learn something and move on with their lives? In order to find out you will have to read the book.
I received a free copy of the book from Mother Daughter Book Review in exchange for an honest review.
February 17, 2015
My Review: Two Kids is a little difficult to get into. Or perhaps, I am just not feeling it . I really like that there is lots of description, though. Once the second half rolls around Two Kids is much easier to become interested in reading. It is very detailed. The characters are your typical hence the name 'two kids'. They have a lot of important conversations and basically are kids living their lives.
My Rating
I feel the book is perfect for younger readers. I would give the book 3 stars.
My Rating
I feel the book is perfect for younger readers. I would give the book 3 stars.
February 24, 2015
This is a book with a difference. It is written from the point of view of two different kids. One little sister also has a few spots where her versions can be read. This makes the story interesting. Certainly the characters are warm, likable and realistic. Teenagers who experience grief, love and every other emotion that affect their lives. For kids who like to read about other kids and who could relate to pain and suffering this would be a great book.
At times it moves slowly and there is not a lot of action - which is great for some readers, but others prefer more adventure.
At times it moves slowly and there is not a lot of action - which is great for some readers, but others prefer more adventure.
March 2, 2015
As a mum of two young boys reading this, it reminded me of what I have in store for the future and how to be mindful of how I talk to pre-teens.
This book deals with death, relationships and puberty. It would be beneficial to read in a school or home setting where follow-up discussions or activities are involved.
There are many teaching opportunities throughout this book and things to learn from the perspective of 6 year olds, pre-teens and how adults react in a variety of situations.
For a full Educational Review visit my website,
http://abcjenny.com/2015/02/28/two-kids/
This book deals with death, relationships and puberty. It would be beneficial to read in a school or home setting where follow-up discussions or activities are involved.
There are many teaching opportunities throughout this book and things to learn from the perspective of 6 year olds, pre-teens and how adults react in a variety of situations.
For a full Educational Review visit my website,
http://abcjenny.com/2015/02/28/two-kids/
March 7, 2015
I did not enjoy this book. When I read I like to read books that at least will have a happy ending. I am not going to spoil it, but these kids went through so much loss, that at the end you would think something happy will happen, but no just more loss. The friendship the two characters forge was great, especially during those awkward years of adolescence. I haven’t lost that many people in my life so I can say I can’t relate, but I will not recommended this book to anyone where there is no hope at the end.
November 3, 2014
This is a uniquely written easy to read book with a lighthearted feel sure to appeal to younger readers. Review by Josselyn: "I like the theme in this story. The kids are smart and fun to read about on their journey. I have never read a book like this one. I think lots of other kids (tweens) will like reading this book." A review ARC was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. This in no way affected our opinion.
January 25, 2015
Disclosure:
I was provided with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review:
Overall I really enjoyed this book. Two Kids is an easy to read, engaging young adult book. Two Kids is about two tweens of the opposite sex who face many of the challenges all young tweens go through. Friendships, moving, family, grief to name of few. Tweens will find this book a pleasure to read.
I was provided with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review:
Overall I really enjoyed this book. Two Kids is an easy to read, engaging young adult book. Two Kids is about two tweens of the opposite sex who face many of the challenges all young tweens go through. Friendships, moving, family, grief to name of few. Tweens will find this book a pleasure to read.
March 2, 2015
I felt like this was written with the pre-teen or early teen in mind. The topics of loss, love and understanding weird parents is something, I think, would resonate with this age group. And with some adult guidance really make for a great conversation.
I enjoyed the quirky wit-isms of Runner Boy and D.C. I loved how they fit together like two peas in a pod and were able to share a year of ups and downs noone should ever have to endure.
I enjoyed the quirky wit-isms of Runner Boy and D.C. I loved how they fit together like two peas in a pod and were able to share a year of ups and downs noone should ever have to endure.
February 21, 2015
Two Kids has been a wonderful read. Without giving away too much of the plot, the story goes through episodes in the lives of Rob and D.C. They reveal their emotional struggles.
I recommend Two Kids. It is a witty and thoughtful written book that engaged me as a reader. The characters are believable, the good and the bad.
I recommend Two Kids. It is a witty and thoughtful written book that engaged me as a reader. The characters are believable, the good and the bad.
March 7, 2015
This book will make the hot list for many teens. It's story plot is an easy read but yet holds a realistic scenes. The things that these two face in their own personal lives as they build their friendship is remarkable. They go through quit a bit. The author's skill are amazing! I strongly recommend any and all ages to read this book!
*Received for an honest review*
*Received for an honest review*
March 4, 2015
I loved this book. D.C. and Rob are the main characters. They take turns telling the story from their point of view. They build a friendship and encounter quite a few hardships through the story. Rob and D.C. are characters that the reader can connect with. I know I did.
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