The Higher Power of Lucky by Susan Patron reminds me (in all the best ways) of the Ramona books I loved as a kid.
Lucky is smart, observant, and quirky, and it’s fun to see her navigate her world. That world has its issues (deep poverty and absent parents among them). But it’s also a world full of love and hope.
If you like realistic middle grade fiction, and you haven’t read this one yet, I strongly recommend it. (You could also try Merci Suárez Changes Gears)
Basically, The Higher Power of Lucky is a fun, quick read with lots of heart. I found myself thinking about it long after I’d finished the last words on the final page. (Metaphorically. I read it on my phone, so there were no actual pages.)