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Thanks a Lot, Universe

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( 2,351 ratings, 462 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Thanks a Lot, Universe by Chad Lucas is a heartfelt tale that follows two boys navigating the complexities of middle school. Brian deals with anxiety and family challenges, while his classmate Ezra quietly grapples with his feelings. Their unexpected friendship leads them on a journey of self-discovery, support, and courage, emphasising the power of empathy and connection.
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Format: Hardback
$3500
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy heartfelt stories about friendship, self-discovery, and overcoming personal challenges. Through the perspective of two distinct boys, this children's book explores themes of anxiety, teamwork, and acceptance, making it a compelling read for those interested in emotional and social growth.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

A moving middle-grade debut for anyone who's ever felt like they don't belong

Brian has always been anxious, whether at home, or in class, or on the basketball court. His dad tries to get him to stand up for himself and his mom helps as much as she can, but after he and his brother are placed in foster care, Brian starts having panic attacks. And he doesn't know if things will ever be "normal" again . . . Ezra's always been popular. He's friends with most of the kids on his basketball team--even Brian, who usually keeps to himself. But now, some of his friends have been acting differently, and Brian seems to be pulling away. Ezra wants to help, but he worries if he's too nice to Brian, his friends will realize that he has a crush on him . . .
But when Brian and his brother run away, Ezra has no choice but to take the leap and reach out. Both boys have to decide if they're willing to risk sharing parts of themselves they'd rather hide. But if they can be brave, they might just find the best in themselves--and each other.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Thanks a Lot, Universe has received praise for its sensitive portrayal of pre-teen friendship, identity exploration, and family dynamics. Reviewers commend the book for its authentic dialogue, emotional depth, and the realistic depiction of challenges like anxiety. The characters, Brian and Ezra, are highlighted as memorable, and the narrative is lauded for both its humour and empathy. With its insightful social commentary, the book is recognised as a substantial contribution to middle-grade literature.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781419751028

Publisher: Abrams

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 24 June 2021

Country: United States

Imprint: Amulet Books

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Width: 140.0mm

Height: 203.0mm

Weight: 300g

Pages: 288

About the Author

Chad Lucas has been in love with words since he attempted his first novel on a typewriter in the sixth grade. He has worked as a newspaper reporter, communications advisor, freelance writer, part-time journalism instructor, and parenting columnist. A proud descendant of the historic African Nova Scotian community of Lucasville, he lives with his family near Halifax, Nova Scotia. He enjoys coaching basketball and is rarely far from a cup of tea. Thanks a Lot, Universe is his debut novel.

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  • Thanks a Lot, Universe
    Brian has always been anxious, whether at home, or in class, or on the basketball court. His dad tries to get him to stand up for himself and his mom helps as much as she can. But after he and his brother are placed in foster care, Brian starts having panic attacks. And he doesn't quite know if there's something...
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  • You Owe Me One, Universe (Thanks a Lot, Universe #2)
    Brian and Ezra’s story continues in the moving sequel to Thanks a Lot, Universe, which New York Times bestselling author Nic Stone called β€œa glorious ode to the beauty of preteen friendship” Brian knows that anxiety and depression aren’t things that are magically fixed overnight, but he still doesn’t understand why it’s all hitting him so hard right now. Sure,...
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  • You Owe Me One, Universe (Thanks a Lot, Universe #2)
    Brian and Ezra’s story continues in the moving sequel to Thanks a Lot, Universe, which New York Times bestselling author Nic Stone called β€œa glorious ode to the beauty of preteen friendship.” Brian knows that anxiety and depression aren’t things that are magically fixed overnight, but he still doesn’t understand why it’s all hitting him so hard right now. Sure,...
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  • The Vanished Ones
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