A review by andrearbooks
The Distance Between Me and the Cherry Tree by Paola Peretti

4.0

The Distance Between Me and the Cherry Tree by Paola Peretti is the story of Mafalda, a girl who is losing her sight and will eventually be blind due to a genetic condition. As Mafalda recognizes what is to come, she reflects on what she is going to lose in the process. She also begins to see how the world around her is changing. With her fate decided, she makes a resolution to move into the cherry tree. This tree brings her happiness, and as she stands to lose so much, she decides to find refuge in a place that she feels comforted and safe. Y'all, this is a middle grade book full of feels. Mafalda's story is emotional. That emotion becomes even more real knowing this is a condition the author also has. Through Mafalda, she is telling the story of what it feels like to lose a sense. Even though there is a lot of sad, there is also a lot of good stuff as Mafalda learns to lean on her family, as well as friends she finds along the way. In all this, she learns who she is able to count on and trust through the process. This is another middle grade book that centers a character with an identity that isn't often seen, and it tells her story with such authenticity. Thanks to NetGalley for the connection with a wonderful, real story out now.