Ways to Make Sunshine by Renee Watson

Ryan Hart loves to spend time with her friends, loves to invent recipies, and has a lot on her mind—school, self-image, and family. Her dad finally has a new job, but money is tight. That means changes like selling their second car and moving into a new (old) house. But Ryan is a girl who knows how to make sunshine out of setbacks. Because Ryan is all about trying to see the best. Even when things aren’t all she would wish for—her brother is infuriating, her parents don’t understand, when her recipies don’t turn out right, and when the unexpected occurs—she can find a way forward, with wit and plenty of sunshine.
(From the book Blurb)

My thoughts:
Such a lovely book with a wonderful protagonist. Ryan Hart is a great friend, loyal and supportive. Her father's post-office got closed and he lost his job. Now he works nights and is often tired. There is also less money, no second car, and the whole family moves into a different, smaller house. It isn't easy to cope with these changes. Luckily, Ryan has her family to remind her that her biggest talent isn't cooking, although she is pretty good at inventing new dishes, her biggest talent is being nice to people. her grandmother keeps telling her that Ryan can wear her hair any way she wants, it's her choice, but it isn't why she is beautiful. Ryan is beautiful because she treats people kindly. Sometimes it comes easy, like noticing that a talented girl from her class is actually very nervous and insecure, and needs a bit of encouragement. Sometimes it takes more effort when Ryan realises she is being selfish or inconsiderate.
The questions Ryan is grappling with are very relatable: coping with changes, especially when they are not exactly for better, trying hard and still not being able to do something, friendships and fitting in, an irritating older brother. Ryan shows remarkable optimism and great ability to turn negative into positive and kind.
Highly recommended. Age 6-10.

Thank you to Edelweiss and Bloomsbury Children's Books for the ARc provided in exchange for an honest opinion.