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Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite
Call Me May by Becky Feldmann centers on May, an eleven-year-old girl in 1932, dealing with the aftermath of her father’s sudden death. Following his passing, she takes on the responsibility of caring for her family, including her mother, who is deeply affected by grief, and her younger brother, Lloyd. Amid this emotional weight, May embarks on a scavenger hunt her father left for her, finding clues that guide her toward a treasured gift, which is a wonderful surprise. Throughout the journey, she juggles difficult relationships with her peers, like Betty, who taunts her. As May resolves problems, including her guilt over not being able to protect her family, she learns to embrace support from friends like Richard and finds comfort in her father’s final messages, ultimately growing emotionally and spiritually despite her loss.
Becky Feldmann delivers a moving and beautifully written coming-of-age story in Call Me May, allowing us into the life of a girl in the throes of grief, learning about resilience and the power of human connection. The story immerses readers in 1932 Bend, Oregon, and, as someone who has lived in Bend, the story was so much more special going back, but also going back in time. The prose is both heartfelt and evocative, capturing May’s emotions and the terrible sadness over the loss of a parent. The mystery of the scavenger hunt is an amazing touch and a lovely testament to the enduring bonds of love. The characters are really well developed and May, who is differently-abled, is a little protagonist that you cannot help but want to root for. The themes of faith and perseverance are worked seamlessly into the story as we are reminded of beauty despite life’s hardships.
