Step

Like Sit, the first book in Onward, the Middle School short story series, Step has a similar thread that binds each of its 9 short stories together. In Step, the stories feature young main characters who have just turned 11 years old. 

Through their perspectives, readers witness an array of experiences - from different family dynamics, impact of war, migrant children in detention centres, discrimination, violence, child labour ... Heavier subjects for sure, but they are handled with care and compassion and create good jumping off points for discussion.

I'm not a big reader of short stories (I often feel like I don't get enough of a feel for the book before it's over), but Canadian author Deborah Ellis weaves each story that feels complete and full of poignant, sometimes heartbreaking moments.

Thought-provoking, empathetic and honest, this is a great collection of brief stories that pack an emotional punch. I appreciate that Ellis doesn't temper or downplay her descriptions of these topics for her young readers, experiences which may be vastly different from their own.   

My Rating: 4 stars

Author: Deborah Ellis

Genre: Middle Grade

Series: Onward 2

Type and Source: ebook from public library

Publisher: Groundwood Books

First Published: March 1, 2022

Read: April 16-17, 2026

Book Description from GoodReads: A collection of 9 stories, each featuring an 11 year-old child. Each story portrays a child seeing his or her life or the lives of others in a new way and taking a "step" forward in life. The book would be enjoyed by both middle graders as well as adults. The stories provide food for thought and explore the importance of thinking of others. An excellent sequel to her previous collection, Sit.