Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

Where to Read

Amazon

Barnes & Noble

Libby

Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased, but as an Amazon Associate, Screenwise earns an affiliate fee if you buy a book or game by clicking one of our links. We don't get any credit if you just Google it instead :)

Screenwise Verdict

This is the kind of book that reminds you why middle-grade fiction exists. It's not flashy or trendy—just five kids, a brownstone in Harlem, and eleven days to change their grumpy landlord's mind. The Vanderbeekers are genuinely likable without being saccharine, and each kid gets real personality and agency.

What makes it work is the warmth without the schmaltz. Yes, it's about family and community and kindness, but it never feels like a lesson. The kids mess up, their plans go sideways, and the ending isn't predictable even though it's happy. Reviews consistently compare it to the Penderwicks, which is high praise—that's the gold standard for wholesome-but-not-boring family stories.

It's a 2018 book that feels fresh and contemporary, with a diverse cast and urban setting that's not just window dressing. The 4.7 Amazon rating and the fact that it spawned six sequels tells you everything: kids actually want to read these. If you're looking for something to bridge the gap between early chapter books and YA, or you need a family read-aloud that won't bore the adults, this is a solid bet.

Age Fit

Best for ages 7-13, though it works beautifully as a read-aloud for younger kids (even preschoolers can enjoy the family dynamics) and holds up for middle schoolers who love character-driven stories. Independent readers around 8-10 will be the sweet spot.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

94

A warm family story centered on five siblings working together to save their home, modeling kindness, community connection, and perseverance. Reviews consistently highlight themes of cooperation and compassion. The family dynamics are healthy and loving, with each child using their unique strengths. No toxicity, meanness, or dysfunction—just genuine family warmth.

Imaginative

78

The premise of five kids scheming to win over their grumpy landlord in eleven days invites creative problem-solving and shows each child using their individual talents. However, it's grounded in realistic family life rather than fantastical world-building. The story has 'tentacles and subplots' per reviews, showing narrative complexity, but it's not wildly inventive—it's a solid, character-driven middle-grade novel.

Safe

98

Essentially zero safety concerns. This is a contemporary family story with no violence, scary content, mature themes, or inappropriate material. The central conflict is losing their apartment—stressful but age-appropriate. Books are inherently safe from digital concerns, and this one has no content that would surprise or upset young readers. One review notes it has a happy ending that 'does not arrive there predictably,' meaning there's genuine tension but nothing traumatic.

Enriching

85

Strong themes of community, kindness, persistence, and family bonds. Each Vanderbeeker kid learns to contribute meaningfully and work toward a shared goal. The Harlem brownstone setting offers cultural richness and urban community life. Reviews praise it as 'excellent themes of kindness and community' and compare it favorably to the beloved Penderwicks series. It builds empathy and shows kids solving real problems, though it's not overtly educational—it's enriching through character and values.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Genuinely warm family dynamics where each kid gets to shine using their unique strengths
Models community connection, kindness, and creative problem-solving without being preachy
Set in a diverse Harlem neighborhood with rich urban community life
First in a 7-book series that readers consistently devour—kids actually want to keep reading
Read Aloud Revival recommends it for 'kids of all ages, preschool through teen'—rare versatility

⚠

What to Watch For

The central conflict (losing their home) might feel stressful for anxious kids, though it resolves positively
Takes a bit to get into—one review notes you need to 'commit to it' before the charm kicks in
Very character-driven and slice-of-life; kids who need constant action might get restless

Conversation Starters

"If we had to move tomorrow, what would you miss most about our home or neighborhood?"
"Each Vanderbeeker kid has a special talent they use to help—what's something you're good at that could help solve a problem?"
"The kids work together even when they don't all agree on the plan. When's a time you had to compromise with a sibling or friend?"
"Mr. Beiderman seems mean at first but there's more to his story. Have you ever changed your mind about someone after getting to know them better?"

Ask Anything

Get a personalized guide on any topic

The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street