The Thing About Leftovers

Praise for The Thing About Leftovers:

“Fizzy’s first-person narration is by turns hilarious and poignant as she struggles to find her voice . . . The subjects of divorce and middle school drama are well handled. Tween readers will appreciate this gentle read as they empathize with Fizzy’s feelings of inadequacy and root for her success.”—School Library Journal

“Payne provides plenty of realistic detail here about Fizzy’s slowly evolving relationships with her parents, stepparents, and new friends . . . Her growth feels authentic and her progress well-earned. Readers experiencing family challenges of their own will laugh and cry with Fizzy, rejoicing as she cooks up quite the satisfying new life for herself.”—Kirkus Reviews

“The Thing About Leftovers is a fun read about a serious topic . . . Children of blended families will relate to Fizzy’s thoughts and emotions. A thought-provoking read for parents and children alike.”–VOYA

“With some really solid emotional insights and an energetic, engaging style, this will enlighten middle-school readers trying to sort through the complexities of family situations they didn’t ask for but need grace to deal with nonetheless.”—BCCB

“Hauntingly accurate portrayal of a young girl’s turmoil after her parents’ divorce . . . As they begin new families and new relationships, Fizzy feels frazzled, alone, and aching for the past . . . Payne’s characters give such interesting perspectives from ‘leftover kids’ that it may inspire some readers to reinspect their own relationships. The plot and characters are bluntly realistic, and Fizzy’s story should resonate with those looking for their place in a newly blended family.”—Booklist