Vivian Lantz’s Second Chances

Dive into the hilarious and heartfelt world of Vivian Lantz in Kathryn Ormsbee's "Vivian Lantz's Second Chances," a captivating middle-grade novel perfect for readers aged 10 and up. Imagine "Groundhog Day" colliding with the awkwardness of eighth grade, and you'll get a sense of the delightful chaos that awaits. This isn't just another first-day-of-school story; it's a time-loop adventure filled with self-discovery, unexpected friendships, and the courage to embrace imperfection. Vivian Lantz dreads the first day of school. Each year brings a fresh wave of embarrassing mishaps and social disasters. This year, she's armed with a meticulously crafted plan to conquer eighth grade, a plan designed to navigate the treacherous waters of middle school hierarchy and finally achieve social bliss. But fate, or perhaps a mischievous curse, has other ideas. Instead of the smooth sailing she envisions, Vivian's first day unfolds as a spectacular train wreck. Just when she thinks it's all over, Vivian wakes up and it's the same day again! Trapped in a time loop, she's forced to relive her catastrophic first day. At first, it seems like a nightmare, a cruel twist of fate. Curse: 9,000. Vivian: 0. But Vivian quickly realizes that this endless loop is an extraordinary opportunity. She can tweak her plan, fix her mistakes, and finally achieve the perfect first day she's always dreamed of. As Vivian repeats the day, she experiments with different approaches, trying to sidestep the mean-girl drama, impress her crush, and avoid any further embarrassing moments. However, with each repetition, she discovers that perfection might not be what it's cracked up to be. The carefully constructed facade she's trying to maintain begins to crumble, revealing the real Vivian underneath a flawed, funny, and surprisingly resilient girl. With each loop, Vivian starts questioning her initial goals and the values she's been chasing. She begins to see the people around her in a new light, noticing the hidden kindnesses and complexities she had previously overlooked. Unexpected friendships blossom, challenging her preconceived notions about who she should be friends with. She learns that true connection is far more valuable than popularity, and that being authentic is more important than being perfect. Kathryn Ormsbee, celebrated author of "Candidly Cline" and other critically acclaimed books, masterfully weaves together humor, heart, and a touch of magic in this coming-of-age story. "Vivian Lantz's Second Chances" is a delightful read for anyone who has ever felt awkward, insecure, or overwhelmed by the challenges of growing up. Fans of Mark Oshiro, Lisa Jenn Bigelow, and Julie Murphy will find much to love in this novel. It tackles relatable themes such as first crushes, mean-girl dynamics, the pressures of fitting in, and the importance of self-acceptance. But beyond the humor and relatable anxieties, "Vivian Lantz's Second Chances" explores deeper themes of self-discovery and the power of second chances. Vivian's journey is a reminder that it's okay to make mistakes, to be yourself, and to embrace the unexpected twists and turns that life throws our way. This book celebrates individuality and the courage to choose your own path, even when it means letting go of your carefully laid plans. This hardcover edition from HarperCollins, published in 2023, boasts 320 pages of captivating storytelling, perfect for middle-grade readers looking for a funny, heartwarming, and thought-provoking read. "Vivian Lantz's Second Chances" is not just a story about reliving the same day; it's a story about learning to live each day to the fullest, embracing imperfection, and discovering the true meaning of friendship and self-acceptance. Whether you're a fan of science fiction and fantasy, LGBTQ+ books, or simply looking for a great read about growing up, this novel is sure to resonate with readers of all ages.