The Genius Hour Project by Leanne Shirtliffe

Real, raw and a read for all.

This book defies any idea of a target audience. It is a story that should be read by anyone who has allowed fear and societal expectations get in the way of doing or being what they love.

This is a story told through the eyes of eleven year old Frazzy who is trying her best at living up to the expectations of others while holding on to her embarrassing path. With side characters who are real, authentic and everyday like you and me who struggle to do the right thing even if we don’t think it’s right for us. It’s a lesson for teachers, parents and friends who continue to offer wise words while hiding behind a mask. It’s a beautiful look at living through a nightmare to realize your dream. It is real, raw and a read for all.

Frazzy feels she has the worst luck when she starts middle school with Jake, a constant thorn in her side, along with her frizzy hair and lack of motivation for anything school related. When she learns of a new year long project, fear overwhelms her along with memories of past school presentations gone wrong. Fortunately, Francine finds her real friends, a way to dig deeper, and ways to do the right thing for everyone, including herself.

This is a story for young readers who want to be inspired to uncover their truths, learn to understand others perspectives, and find enjoyment through learning and research. The Genius Hour Project is a middle grade novel with a lesson for all ages as it breaks the norm of hiding the strange, pushing back emotions, and sweeping things under the rug. Shirtliffe sheds light through an easy to devour meal of authenticity and a side of hope. She writes a story of breaking societal norms, releasing expectations, and thriving.

Leanne Shirtliffe is a writer and teacher who has lived in Canada, Thailand, and Bahrain. The author of five picture books for children and two nonfiction books for adults, The Genius Hour Project is her debut middle-grade novel. When she is not writing, she can be found teaching teenagers, going to garage sales, and listening to an eclectic collection of music. Leanne now lives with her family in Calgary, Alberta.

Publisher: Thistledown Press (August 6, 2024)
Paperback 8″ x 6″ | 252 pages
ISBN: 9781771872577

Sarah Butland

Website

I am a struggling artist, a challenging and challenged mother who always thinks she is failing, an emerging freelance writer and reporter, an author with my name on several books crossing genres and always hoping to find more readers who enjoy them.

I am also a successful artist, a wonderful and thriving mother of one, a reacher towards both people and dreams despite all of the turned backs and obstacles in my way. I am a thriving freelance writer and reporter, an author loved by enough readers to make it worthwhile and a discombobulated conundrum who loves to hear new music, tell new tales and meet new authors. And I’m doing something I always dreamed of doing – reviewing books to support others as well as myself and my family.

Sarah Butland

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