Book Review: ‘The Year of Billy Miller’ by Kevin Henkes (middle grade fiction)

Billy Miller is about to start second grade. But he has a problem. He is worried that he will not be smart enough. The reason he is worried is that he got a bump on his head near the end of the summer and he is afraid that this may cause him to forget things or be confused. When he gets to school, he has to adjust to a new teacher and annoying classmate Emma Sparks. Fortunately, his best friend Ned is right there with him.

While Billy manages the demands of second grade and life as big brother to 3-year-old Sally, he learns some important life lessons and more about the love he shares with his mother and father.

The Year of Billy Miller takes the reader through the year of an ordinary boy as he has opportunities to express creativity and try new things. He experiences both disappointments and successes. Whether you are a teacher, a parent, or a second grader yourself, this is a book you will enjoy!