The Sideways Orbit of Evie Hart

Evie Hart is a rule-follower-but what happens when life breaks all the rules? In this heartfelt middle-grade debut, The Sideways Orbit of Evie Hart, Evie's last year of primary school throws her universe into question. Family tensions, changing friendships, and the vastness of the cosmos make her wonder: where exactly does she belong? This moving story explores identity, change, and emotional growth with warmth, insight, and humour.

Educational Benefits:

• Encourages reflection on identity, belonging, and change during the pre-teen years.
• Supports social-emotional learning and empathy development.
• Inspires interest in astronomy and our place in the universe.
• Promotes critical thinking around family dynamics and personal values.

Classroom Ideas:

• Use in literature circles to discuss themes of family, friendship, and resilience.
• Connect to science topics like the solar system and orbits.
• Encourage students to write journal entries exploring their own œplace in the world.
• Pair with creative projects such as constellation art or personal galaxy metaphors.

Information:

• Target Age: Middle grade (9-12 years)
• Author: Samera Kamaleddine, winner of the Matilda Prize
• Format: Paperback