Review of Sitting on Top of the World

Justine Ocsebio · Post by **Justine Ocsebio** » 01 Jan 2022, 05:04

[Following is an official OnlineBookClub.org review of "Sitting on Top of the World" by Cheryl King.]

4 out of 4 stars

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Sitting on Top of the World, a novel by Cheryl King, tells the coming-of-age story of a fourteen-year-old girl during the Great Depression. June’s family is barely making enough to sustain their farm and keep food on the table. As the situation gets worse each day, June finds a way to help out. But when life becomes tougher and more unforgiving, June‘s kindness and resolve will be put to the test.

This book is a heartwarming story of hope and resiliency amidst a challenging time. June Baker is a little speck of good in this world as we unravel the story through the way she sees and navigates her environment. The reader ultimately bears witness to a young girl’s maturation at a time when the economic condition is causing suffering to many people.

What I liked the most about the book was how the main character was written. When we think about a strong female protagonist, what usually comes to mind is a picture of a physically strong woman who needs no saving. In the story, June is not physically strong, yet she is brave and powerful in her own way. June uses her empathy to protect the people she loves and her resolve to do it in any way she can. This book reminds me so much of Anne of Green Gables, which is a classic book that I also dearly love. Both novels have refreshing portrayals of a strong female protagonist.

The author did a great job fleshing out the characters and establishing meaningful relationships. The first half of the book highlights the relationship between June and Josy as siblings. And as one grows fond of the two, anything that might happen to them later in the story will have an impact on the reader. This superb novel brought me feelings I have not felt for a book in such a long time. The most touching moments warmed my heart, and I was so close to crying during the most heartbreaking ones.

This book was a delightful adventure. I’m rating the book 4 out of 4 stars for its well-developed characters and heartwarming premise. I found no errors, so I would say the book was professionally edited. I also couldn’t think of anything to dislike about this book. I recommend it to those who like a coming-of-age novel set in an important historical moment. If you want a bittersweet story about friendship, family, and young love, this book will give you exactly that and more.

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Sitting on Top of the World
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