The Higher Power of Lucky by Susan Patron

Bibliography
Patron, Susan. 2006. The Higher Power of Lucky. New York: Atheneum Books.

Illustrator: Matt Phelan
ISBN: 1-41690-194-9

Summary
Ten year old, Lucky Trimble, in her despair over the thought her guardian will return to France, decides to run away. In her run away event, she finds her higher power, giving herself peace and stability.

Critical Analysis
The Newbery Award winning book, The Higher Power of Lucky, is a heartfelt story about a girl afraid of the possible abandonment of her guardian, while dealing the the loss of her mother.

Patron does an excellent job at portraying the characters in a believable, likable way. For example, Lucky, the main character, is a typical ten-year old. She collects insects and dreams of opening an insect museum. She eavesdrops on twelve-step anonymous meetings. After finding her guardian's passport, she is afraid Brigette is going back to France, leaving her alone. Lucky has a "meanness gland" (34) that erupts a few times when Miles, a 5 year old comes around.

The story is set in Hard Pan, California, where the town is so small there are "no markets or restaurants or even a gas station" (44). While unusually small, and unique in its own way, it is still reminiscent of small town USA. The neighbors know each other, where they support and rely on each other. The residents cope with problems like alcoholism or gambling.

Patron's plot leaves the reader with a satisfied feeling, knowing a Higher Power has found Lucky and she is able to release her mothers remains into the wind. The reader finds Lucky dealing with her situations in a true-to-life manner. Lucky lives her life while dealing with the loss of her mother. Also, she devises a plan to run away. Additionally, the themes of abandonment, loss, fear, and courage in Lucky's story of Lucky are perfectly presented. This presentation helps readers relate to Lucky with ease.

Illustrator, Matt Phelan's simple line drawings help round out the story. His illustrations show the simplicity of Hard Pan life and the depth of Patron's characters. This story is a perfect blend of entertainment and excellent storytelling. The Higher Power of Lucky is a perfect story for all young adults.

Review Excerpts
Horn Book announces, "Author Patron's tale of a grieving, insecure little girl is never heavy-handed or maudlin, due in part to quiet bursts of humor. . . . The book's brief chapters reflect the cyclical, episodic nature of life in Hard Pan, while meandering yet meticulously crafted sentences illustrate Lucky's natural curiosity and the importance of storytelling in her life. Patron's sensory descriptions of Hard Pan and the surrounding desert, supported by Phelan's gentle spot art, animate this unique community" (2007).

Kirkus starred reports, "The plot is not what elevates Lucky's memorable story. Hard Pan may be lightly populated, but every soul is uniquely unforgettable, from 5-year-old Miles, shameless cookie hustler, to Lincoln, serious knot-tying addict. Readers will gladly give themselves over to Patron, a master of light but sure characterization and closely observed detail. A small gem" (2007).

Reviews excerpts from http://www.titlewave.com/.

Connections
Other stories by Susan Patron:
Dark Cloud Strong Breeze
Maybe Yes, Maybe No, Maybe Maybe
Bobbin Dustbobbin
Five Bad Boys, Billy Que, and the Dustbobbin
Burgoo Stew