To Have and to Hold cover

To Have and to Hold

Author: Dower, Laura

Reading Metrics

Grade Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)
Book Level 4.0
Points 8.0
Fiction/Nonfiction Fiction
Word Count 55364
Points per Word 0.000144
Page Count 309
Points per Page 0.02589

Description

Madison prepares to travel to a Texas ranch to attend and take part in her father's wedding. Special Edition #1

Quick Summary

Madison's on a road trip to a Texas ranch for her dad's wedding, and the moment she steps off the dusty pickup she's thrust into a world of stubborn horses, bright sunshine, and a surprise or two that make the whole trip feel like a wild adventure. Kids who love family stories where someone has to deal with new step-parents, nervous dads, and the pressure of being part of a big ceremony will find plenty to relate to, while the humor and light-hearted moments keep the tone fun. Parents will appreciate that there are a few moments of gentle tension (a sudden thunderstorm, a spooked horse) but nothing too scary, and the overall message about embracing change is wholesome. Madison's role in the wedding helping with the vows, navigating a new step-mom, and figuring out how to fit into a new family gives the story a nice mix of responsibility and heart. At an AR 4.0 level, it's a solid choice for middle-grade readers who want a chapter-book that feels a little meatier without being overwhelming. If you enjoy books like *The Lemonade War* where sibling dynamics and problem-solving drive the plot, you'll likely love this one just as much.