Amanda Rawson Hill Boeken

An inspiring coming-of-age novel in verse about weathering the uncertainty that comes with family illness perfect for fans of Starfish and Red, White, and Whole.Cass and her parents haven’t let her dad’s cancer stop them from having a good life—full of love and poems and one annual World Series game. Now that Dad’s cancer is back, Cass overhears the doctor say that she has a 50% chance of inheriting her dad's genetic mutation, Li-Fraumeni syndrome. There’s a genetic test Cass can take that will tell her for sure. There’s still so much she wants to do—play baseball, study at the zoo, travel the world with her best friend, Jayla. Would it be better not to know? When it turns out Dad’s cancer is worse this time, Cass is determined to keep up their World Series tradition while navigating all the change and uncertainty that lies ahead. Poignant and powerful, Cass’s story brings the pains and anxiety linked with illness to the surface, and reminds us that sometimes hope is worth holding on to.

Absence becomes remembrance in this soothing book that offers tender ways to pay tribute throughout daily life to a loved one who is not around. Be it friends, family, pets, or others, memories can carry us beyond the precious moments we have together to keep the ones we love in mind always.

Confronting personal challenges such as friendship issues, her parents' divorce, and her grandmother's dementia, Kate discovers that magic may provide the solace she needs. This lyrical middle-grade coming-of-age novel explores the complexities of growing up and the unexpected ways magic can influence life, appealing to readers who enjoy heartfelt stories like Half a Chance and The Same Stuff as Stars.

Exploring the complexities of blended families, this novel weaves in elements of magic to enhance its heartfelt narrative. It poses the intriguing question of wishes and their implications, making it a resonant read for those who appreciate stories about personal growth and family dynamics. Fans of contemporary middle-grade literature will find echoes of Rebecca Stead’s themes, as it delves into the challenges and joys of forging new familial bonds.

This gentle and affirming story encourages young readers to remember a loved one in small and meaningful ways through their own life experiences.