Moving, new schools, and an interminable “fog” have been a part of Milo’s life since his mother’s death from a brain tumor. His father has gotten rid of all his mother’s clothes and other reminders of her, leaving Milo with nothing tangible to remember her by. His father’s reluctance to talk about his mom further complicates Milo’s sadness. But starting seventh grade at his newest school proves to be a turning point. Although Milo isn’t exactly the popular type, he finds his niche with Hillary, the quirky neighbor girl, and another kid from school whose family gives Milo the feelings of normalcy he used to have when his mom was around. With the help of his adult neighbor, Sylvia, and his two new best friends, Milo starts to open up, talking about his mother andfinding a way to bring back memories of her life. The humor, honesty, and friendships in this entertaining story are surprisingly profound, and the diary format with cartoon illustrations makes it an engaging and accessible book. (Ages 10–13)

Loveable thirteen-year-old geek Milo Cruikshank finds reasons for frustration at every turn, from the annoying habits of his neighbors to his futile efforts to get Summer Goodman to realize his existence. The truth is, ever since Milo’s mother died, nothing has gone right. Now instead of the kitchen being full of music, his whole house has been filled with Fog. Nothing’s the same. Not his Dad. Not his sister. And definitely not him. Milo achieves a rare and easy balance of poignancy and awkward, natural humor, making it deeply accessible—this is the kind of book that can change lives.