Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe, a middle-grade novel by Jo Watson Hackl, receives praise for its engaging protagonist, richly described setting, and themes of resilience. However, some critics feel the pacing drags in parts. Overall, it's a heartfelt tale that captivates young readers, despite minor flaws.

A reader who enjoys Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe by Jo Watson Hackl would likely appreciate adventurous, coming-of-age stories with a focus on resilience and self-discovery. Fans of Hoot by Carl Hiaasen and Holes by Louis Sachar would find a similar blend of mystery, nature, and heartfelt journeys in this book.

Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe by Jo Watson Hackl is about a 12-year-old girl named Cricket who, after her grandmother's and father's deaths and her mother's disappearance, tries to solve a decades-old mystery in the Mississippi woods. She hopes that unraveling this mystery will bring her mother back into her life permanently. The book includes discussions of mental illness and grief after the loss of family members.

Adventurous / Inspirational / Mysterious / Emotional / Hopeful

- Jo Watson Hackl, the author of Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe, was inspired to incorporate elements of art and nature into the book, drawing from her own experiences growing up in Mississippi.
- The book has received praise for its rich depiction of Southern culture and landscapes, which Hackl conveys with authentic detail.
- Jo Watson Hackl has a strong interest in nature and is a certified naturalist, which influences the environmental themes present in her writing.

**Cricket**  
A resourceful and independent twelve-year-old girl who is the protagonist and narrator, guided by her father's survival skills and her mother's influences as she embarks on a significant quest.

**Mama**  
Cricket's mother, who is largely absent from the story and remembered through Cricket's memories, is struggling with mental health issues, leading to her unpredictable presence in Cricket’s life.

**Daddy**  
Cricket’s deceased father, who lives on through his teachings and loving memories, significantly impacts Cricket’s survival skills and emotional resilience.

**Grandma**  
A stern figure in Cricket’s life, who tried to maintain stability for Mama and left a lasting impression after passing away before the story begins.

**Charlene the Cricket**  
A cricket found by Cricket in a grocery store, named after her mother, whom Cricket projects her feelings onto and finds companionship with during her journey.

**Miss Vidalia**  
Cricket’s father’s second cousin once removed, with a fondness for poetry and puzzles, who is initially guarded but becomes a supportive figure offering insights into Mama’s situation.

**Aunt Belinda**  
Cricket’s father’s brother’s ex-wife, who takes Cricket in after her father’s death and is responsible for much of Cricket’s immediate care despite initial plans for relocation.

Jo Watson Hackl

Middle grade

Novel

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Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-12

Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe Chapters 1-12 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 13-23

Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe Chapters 13-23 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 24-36

Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe Chapters 24-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-48

Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe Chapters 37-48 Summary & Analysis

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Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe Character Analysis

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Smack Dab in the Middle of Maybe Themes

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