TL;DR
Savvy is a coming-of-age story centered around the Beaumont family, where each member receives a unique magical ability, known as a “savvy,” on their 13th birthday. The story follows Mibs Beaumont as she anxiously awaits her savvy, grappling with expectations and the unknown. When her father suffers an accident, Mibs embarks on a journey to reach him, discovering her own power and the true meaning of family along the way.
Table of contents
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Author & Writing Background
Ingrid Law is an American author known for her imaginative and whimsical children’s and young adult novels. Her writing often explores themes of family, self-discovery, and the power of imagination. “Savvy” was her debut novel and received critical acclaim for its originality and engaging characters.
Key Takeaways
The Beaumont Family and Savvies
The Beaumont family is characterized by their unique savvies, which manifest on each member’s 13th birthday. These abilities range from controlling the weather to influencing emotions, creating a sense of wonder and unpredictability.
Mibs’ Journey of Self-Discovery
Mibs, the protagonist, is on the cusp of her 13th birthday, eagerly anticipating her savvy while grappling with uncertainty and self-doubt. Her journey to reach her injured father becomes a catalyst for discovering her own power and identity.
The Power of Belief and Imagination
The novel emphasizes the importance of belief and imagination in harnessing one’s savvy. The characters learn that their abilities are amplified by their conviction and the strength of their will.
Family Bonds and Relationships
Savvy explores the complexities of family relationships, highlighting the love, support, and occasional conflicts that arise within the Beaumont family. The story emphasizes the importance of unity and understanding.
Coming-of-Age Themes
The novel delves into universal coming-of-age themes such as self-discovery, identity formation, navigating relationships, and accepting responsibility.
Magical Realism and Whimsy
Savvy incorporates elements of magical realism, blending fantastical elements with the ordinary world. The story’s whimsical tone and imaginative setting create a captivating reading experience.
The Importance of Acceptance
The characters learn to accept themselves and others for who they are, embracing their unique qualities and differences. The novel promotes tolerance and understanding.
Embracing the Unknown
Savvy encourages readers to embrace the unknown and face challenges with courage and optimism. The story highlights the potential for growth and discovery in unexpected situations.
FAQ about Savvy
What age group is Savvy appropriate for?
Savvy is generally recommended for readers aged 9-12, but its themes of family, self-discovery, and acceptance can resonate with readers of all ages.
Is Savvy part of a series?
Yes, Savvy is the first book in the “Savvy” series, followed by “Scumble” and “Switch.”
What is the main message of Savvy?
Savvy emphasizes the importance of self-belief, family, and embracing one’s unique qualities. It encourages readers to face challenges with courage and find magic in the everyday world.
Savvy Quotes
- ”A savvy is a secret, something no one can explain. Like how the wind can move a sailboat, or how a seed knows to grow into a sunflower, or how the moon pulls the tide.” - Mibs Beaumont
- ”You can’t spend your whole life worrying about what’s going to happen. Sometimes you just have to jump.” - Gypsy Beaumont
- ”Everyone has a savvy, whether they know it or not. It’s what makes you special, what makes you you.” - Miss Rosemary