Gr 3–5—Ryan is a ray of sunshine whose positivity is infectious, even during challenging times. Watson takes a look
at the everyday ups and downs of kid life in this series debut following a young Black girl in Portland, OR. Readers
are bound to fall in love with enthusiastic Ryan and her warm, loving family.

Ways to Make Sunshine
Ryan Hart, Book 1

I Picked Up This Book Because: A Litten mentioned it was being petitioned to be banned in her local school district.

Media Type: eBook
Source: RVA Public Library
Dates Read: 1/15/23 - 1/29/23
Stars: 3
Narrator(s):

The Characters:

Ryan Hart:
Ronan Smith:
Ray Hart (Brother), Mom, Dad,

The Story:

This is a slice of life from a Portland family. Ryan tries to live up to the meaning of her name while navigating life as a 4th grader. She’s not perfect but she is open and willing to learn from her mistakes.

The Random Thoughts:

I’m really glad the ban partition did not pass. Also, I saw none of the accusations for banning as I read the book. I’d like to see the original proposal but I’m not quite that invested. ( )

RGG: Loveable fourth-grader Ryan Hart is the star of a wonderful, age-appropriate realistic story, perfect for young elementary school readers.

Super sweet book about a smart and feisty young lady. Love the centering on an African American family, and the values that the parents are passing down. Love the coping mechanisms they share as well. I think the comparisons with Ramona Quimby's hijinks is exactly spot on -- great readalike for fans of Penderwicks, Ramona, Cleo Edison Oliver, Family Fletcher. Good stuff. ( )

I really, really enjoyed the way Ryan reacts to all of the changes in her life. She has that magical skill to take a second look at an unwelcome challenge and put it in perspective. Ryan is a very believeable character--we've all felt disgruntled when unexpected setbacks appear. She is also an admirable character. She has grace under pressure. Renée Watson has drawn her thoughts and actions in a way that gives you hope that it might be possible for you to be more graceful under pressure too.

Clear prose, warm family relationships--This is destined to be a classic series. ( )