Cynthia Lord's A Handful of Stars has been praised for its heartfelt exploration of friendship and cultural diversity. The nuanced portrayal of its young characters navigating complex issues resonated with many readers. Some critics, however, noted the plot's predictability. Overall, it is considered a touching and thought-provoking read suitable for middle-grade audiences. 

Lord, Cynthia. A Handful of Stars. Scholastic, 2015.

A reader who would enjoy A Handful of Stars by Cynthia Lord is likely a middle-grade audience aged 8-12, who appreciates heartfelt stories of friendship, personal growth, and overcoming challenges. Fans of Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo and Wonder by R.J. Palacio would find similar themes resonant.

In A Handful of Stars by Cynthia Lord, Lily, a young girl in Maine, befriends Salma, a migrant working with her parents during the blueberry harvest. They bond over painting mason bee houses to raise funds for Lily’s blind dog, Lucky, and face challenges in their friendships and personal lives. Their growing connection highlights the hardships of migrant life and the importance of community and family support. The book includes themes of loss and bereavement related to the death of a parent.

Heartwarming / Inspirational / Hopeful / Emotional / Contemplative

- Cynthia Lord, known for her Newbery Honor-winning debut novel Rules, brings a heartwarming story with A Handful of Stars, which explores themes of friendship, diversity, and socio-economic challenges.
- A Handful of Stars was selected as a Junior Library Guild selection, highlighting its recognition and appeal to young readers and educators alike.
- The story's setting in Maine captures the local culture and landscape, providing an authentic backdrop to the narrative, inspired by Lord's personal experiences living in New England.

**TIGERLILY MARIE “LILY”**  
Lily is a thoughtful and introspective middle grader in a small, changing community in Maine, balancing self-doubt with a strong sense of empathy and compassion. Her friendship with Salma and her connection to her dog, Lucky, form crucial elements of her journey.

**SALMA SANTIAGO**  
Salma is a 12-year-old Hispanic migrant worker who integrates into the community for the blueberry harvest and plays a pivotal role in exploring cultural diversity. Her creativity and determination drive her participation in the local beauty pageant.

**PÉPÈRE AND MÉMÈRE**  
Lily’s grandparents are central to the family dynamics, with Pépère offering wisdom and guidance while Mémère battles with grief and the challenge of letting go. Their interactions reveal generational differences and familial bonds.

**LUCKY**  
Lucky, Lily’s blind Labrador retriever, serves as a cherished link to her late mother and symbolizes stability and emotional connection. His intuitive nature underscores themes of emotional perception and adapting to change.

**HANNAH**  
Hannah, Lily's childhood best friend and the reigning blueberry queen, navigates the pressures of her title and explores new interests, altering her friendship with Lily. Her interactions with Salma illustrate themes of diversity and friendship.

**DR. KATZ**  
Dr. Katz, Lucky’s veterinarian, is a supportive maternal figure to Lily due to her past friendship with Lily’s mother. She provides emotional support and guidance, cautioning against cataract surgery for Lucky.

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