The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei
By Author / Illustrator
Christina Matula
Genre
School Stories
Age range(s)
11+
Publisher
Harlequin (UK)
ISBN
9781335428653
Format
Paperback / softback
Published
27-04-2023
Synopsis
Packed with humor and heart, this debut middle grade series follows a girl finding her place in a brand-new world of private school and frenemies when her family moves to Hong Kong.
Holly-Mei Jones couldn't be more excited about moving to Hong Kong for her mother's job. Her new school is right on the beach and her family's apartment is beyond beautiful. Everything is going to be perfect . . . right? Maybe not. It feels like everywhere she turns, there are new rules to follow and expectations to meet. On top of that, the most popular girl in her grade is quickly becoming a frenemy. And without the guidance of her loving Ah-ma, who stayed behind in Toronto, Holly-Mei just can't seem to get it right. It will take all of Holly-Mei's determination and sparkle (and maybe even a tiny bit of stubbornness) to get through seventh grade and turn her life in Hong Kong into the ultimate adventure!
Reviews
Wendy
The Not-So-Uniform Life of Holly-Mei is the first in a new series. It starts with a girl discovering her family is moving from Toronto to Hong Kong because her mum has got a new job. This brings a new home, in a luxurious apartment building and a new private school, which is built right on the edge of the beach. As Holly-Mei joins the Year Sevens there she makes friends and frenemies- particularly the most popular girl in the school. The story then follows her through the school year as she navigates the challenges of a new country, a new school, new friends and a whole different culture to get to grips with, all without the loving guidance of her Grandma, who stayed behind in Canada.
Holly-Mei is a sparky heroine with just the right amount of stubbornness and sparkle who lurches from triumph to disaster with humour, wit and a few tears. This book gently reminds readers that privileged lifestyles might look perfect on the outside but are often fraught with anxiety and dilemma and that friendships, self awareness and resilience are the things to keep close and develop throughout your teenage years.
An interesting debut to a new series and one that will become a firm favourite with anyone who wants a change from the generic UK or American teenage adventures.
300 pages / Reviewed by Wendy Kelly, teacher
Suggested Reading Age 11+
