Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Publisher: March 16, 2004
Release Date: HarperAudio
ISBN: 0060744855
Awards:  
Format Reviewed: Audio CD - unabridged edition
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Genre: Juvenile fiction (ages 9-12)
Reviewed: 2004
Reviewer: Brenda Weeaks
Reviewer Notes:  
Copyright MyShelf.com

Heartbeat
By Sharon Creech

Read by Mandy Siegfried

Annie has a lot going on in her life.

Annie’s teacher tells her to draw an apple. She is excited about drawing the apple, but the longer she holds on to it the more it changes.

Annie’s mom is pregnant. Annie watches the baby change. She hears the heartbeat and sees the sonogram. She is amazed.

Annie’s Grandpa lives with Annie’s family. He’s a good grandpa, but he can’t remember how to fry chicken or do other things.

Annie’s friend Max joins track, but is too proud to accept hand-me-down shoes or money for new ones. Max is Annie’s running partner and friend. She wants to change his mind, but how?

Heartbeat is a story about change. Change is continuous; life moves on, and it’s okay. Annie ponders the changes she sees, and she voices her thoughts. Sometimes she’s funny and sometimes she’s wise, like Grandpa. Reading Heartbeat, young readers will discover they are no different than Annie. Life has many views and synonyms to express them. It’s a terrific addition to Creech’s growing collection of juvenile books.

Actress Mandy Siegfried reads the audio version of Heartbeat. She gives an amusing, insightful performance.