i wish the world and the blue had been explained a little more - there was a lot of detail, but it didn't quite fit together for me in a way that explained why things happened and worked the way they did. however, I think it's a really compelling world and story, with sweet characters I was rooting for the whole time. grayce's journey and acceptance from family and friends was really beautiful, and I think the whole story works great for middle grade readers who are ready for the more sad/violent parts