Book Review: Mountain Upside Down by Anna Ryan
When I first stumbled upon Mountain Upside Down, I was drawn in not only by its intriguing title but also by the promise of a heartfelt story centered around libraries—a place that holds so much nostalgia for me. The author, Anna Ryan, crafts a vivid narrative that not only celebrates the power of community and connection but also grapples with the complex realities of family, friendship, and growing up.
Set in the quaint town of Failin, Oregon, the novel introduces us to Alex, a seventh-grader navigating the sometimes bumpy waters of adolescence. Living with her grandmother, a retired librarian, Alex’s world is beautifully intertwined with the local library, where she spends her time on the Youth Council alongside her best friend, PJ. Their budding romance, which begins with a sweet kiss in a tree, is charmingly relatable and adds a lovely dimension to their friendship. I found myself rooting for these two young girls, not just in their relationship but in their individual pursuits—whether it’s PJ’s passion for swimming or Alex’s commitment to her community.
Yet, amidst the youthful exuberance lies a landscape of deeper issues. The tension surrounding library funding and the impending closure of their beloved hangout resonates with anyone who understands the importance of accessible public spaces. The backdrop of local politics creates an atmosphere of urgency, as communities grapple with shifts that can either uplift or diminish them.
What really struck me was how Ryan navigates the complexities of familial relationships. Alex’s grandmother occasionally forgets things, casting shadows of uncertainty over their lives. The dynamic between Alex, her estranged father, and his new family builds a rich tapestry of emotional depth that feels real and relatable. It’s refreshing to see parents who care—even if it’s imperfect—offering a safety net for Alex.
One of my favorite aspects of the storytelling is Ryan’s authentic voice. It felt as if I were transported into Alex’s mind—chaotic yet wonderfully sincere—during the ups and downs of her tween life. The pacing matched the rhythm of adolescence: sometimes it whirls by, and other times it lingers on tender moments, such as PJ’s swim meet, which Alex manages to attend in a whirlwind of determination and teenage grit. The careful balance of serious themes alongside lighter, everyday misadventures keeps readers engaged and reflective.
While I enjoyed much of the narrative’s richness, I found myself longing for more exploration of some serious issues at play. The portrayal of senior living facilities, in particular, felt a bit too negative; I believe that understanding can foster acceptance and ease many of the fears surrounding transitions like these. It echoed my own experiences, reminding me that care can be a beautiful thing when shared with family.
Overall, Mountain Upside Down is a delightful read for middle-grade enthusiasts who appreciate stories that highlight the nuances of growing up, especially when set against the backdrop of a library’s comforting embrace. Readers who enjoyed books like Things You Can’t Say by Bishop or A Kind of Paradise by Tan will undoubtedly find joy in Ryan’s work.
In the end, Mountain Upside Down is not just a tale of adolescent growing pains but a reminder of the importance of community, connection, and the sometimes messy, ever-sweet journey of growing up. I walked away with a renewed appreciation for the little things and, like Alex, a recognition of the ups and downs that shape who we are. I encourage everyone to step into Alex’s world—there’s a bit of the “Creeper” and the “Youth Council” in all of us, don’t you think? Happy reading!
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