Audrey Covington Breaks the Rules, Karina Evans (Book Review)

Summary: Audrey Covington Breaks the Rules

Audrey Covington Breaks the Rules is Karina Evans sophomore middle grade novel. It features young Audrey who’s graduating from elementary school and struggling with having overprotective parents. She notices that her friends seem uninterested in hanging out with her (because she can’t do many of the things their parents allow them to — getting ice cream together alone, watching non PG movies alone, and more). The breaking point comes when they officially uninvite from their much-anticipated graduation sleepover. Deeply upset, Audrey takes the opportunity to abscond with her celebrity grandmother (who’s desperate to get away for her own reasons). From escaping security on movie lots to crashing celebrity parties, the two have a hijinks-filled day. But how long can Audrey keep breaking the rules?

The Good

This was a fun story! Audrey is understandably frustrated by her parents’ heavy hand of protectiveness and her friends are honestly not understanding or particularly tolerant about her situation. At the same time, the author gives readers a peek into why Audrey’s mom in particular wants to shield her daughter and help her remain a kid as long as possible. Over time, Audrey also comes to understand that having parents who care so much isn’t necessarily a bad thing, from the right perspective.

The night’s hijinks on their own were fun and will be enjoyable for kids who harbor the dream of going off on their own now and again. Audrey’s grandmother is a legendary actress who still gets recognized occasionally, so that adds a touch of glitz and glamor to the story. As much as I was worried about Audrey, I did mostly root for her having a day off from her parents and I think it did all involved parties some good, allowing them to reflect and consider some compromises.

Overall: Audrey Covington Breaks the Rules

Audrey Covington Breaks the Rules is an exciting, escapist, and insightful middle grade book about identity and finding balanced freedom as a tween. Although it centers around a family with celebrity connections, the themes explored in this story (friendship problems, grandparent relationships, the desire for greater independence, etc.) are relatable and timeless. It will definitely appeal to a younger middle grade audience as they reach for more independence from their parents.