SYNOPSIS: Olivetti is a typewriter, a machine who captures “tapestries” written by the fingers who tap his keys. He keeps the memories and is especially fond of his owners, the Brindle family. Beatrice has long forgotten the days when she would spend hours with Olivetti. Now she is a busy mom with kids who become busy with sports, books, friends, school, and everything in between. When Beatrice leaves Olivetti at a pawn shop and heads away without explanation, it is up to Olivetti and her son, Earnest, to solve the mystery of where she has gone. Olivetti decides to break the rules and types back and forth with Earnest in order to help him and his family find their beloved mom. 

MY THOUGHTS: The Olivetti chapters where we have the chance to hear from the point of view of a typewriter are beyond creative. They are heartwarming, laugh out loud hilarious, and I never thought I could imagine an old-timey machine as endearing. Allie Millington’s debut middle grade book will undoubtedly be an international hit for all ages. She masterfully writes what turns out to be a sad and heartbreaking story with characters who we will remember for many years to come. The vocabulary will be studied, Earnest and Quinn will be some of this generation's favorite bookish kids, and the love of a family in desperate times will be cherished when the Brindle family, partnered with their treasured typewriter, reminds us that doing the right thing sometimes means we may need to break the rules.