Eight Keys by Suzanne LaFleur

Eight Keys is a middle grade realistic fiction book about friendship, kindness, and forgiveness. 12-year-old Elise is starting middle school, and she doesn't fit in. She is bullied and tormented every day by her locker partner. She doesn't fit in, and drifts away from her only true friend in an effort to gain acceptance. She is not alone, as before her father passed, he left her an intricate puzzle to solve. As keys start showing up all over the place, Elise unlocks the hidden rooms in her barn. Her father's messages teach her to have confidence in herself.

Eight Keys is an extremely realistic depiction of sixth grade and how schools tend to handle cases of bullying and harassment. Sixth grade is a huge transition year where everyone is trying to figure out who they are, where they belong, and how to fit in. I loved to watch Elise's development from being scared, embarrassed, and insecure to being confident and able to stand up for herself.

Elise's journey of self discovery was beautiful, and I loved the vast support system of her family helping her though these tough times. Elise was far from perfect but lovely all the same. Elise felt very depressed at times, and I loved witnessing her evolve and find happiness. This book is extremely inspirational and shares the importance of standing up for yourself and loving who you are. Every girl should read this sweet story.

I highly recommend this book, and I am looking forward to reading another book of the author's, Love, Aubrey. 

Title: Eight Keys
Author: Suzanne LaFleur
Publisher: Scholastic
Pages: 216
Series: No
Rating: 5 Stars
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