From the critically acclaimed author of the ALA Notable and Charlotte Huck Honor Book Forever, or a Long, Long Time comes a poignant coming-of-age novel about the complicated parts of growing up, finding your voice, and claiming your space. Perfect for fans of Rebecca Stead, Laurel Snyder, or Ali Benjamin!
Lydia hasn't felt comfortable in her own skin since the boys at her school started commenting on the way she looks in her uniform. Her cousin and friends think she should be flattered, but the boys?and sometimes her mom's boyfriend, Jeremy?make Lydia uncomfortable and confused. Even more confusing is when Jeremy hovers too close and hugs a little too long.
Then her mom surprises her by buying a dilapidated house in their neighborhood. Lydia hopes to find a little bit of magic in their new home. But just like the adults in her life, and God, and her friends, the magic Lydia deeply believes in eventually loses its power to keep her safe.
And as seventh grade begins, Lydia wonders: Is there a secret to figuring out how to be a girl in the world?
- Dealing with Tough Topics: A sensitive and honest look at a young girl learning about bodily autonomy, unwanted attention, and what to do when an adult feels unsafe.
- Complicated Family Dynamics: Lydia navigates life with her well-meaning single mom, a live-in cousin who feels more like a rival, and her mom's creepy new boyfriend in the house.
- Navigating Friendships: As the boys at school change, so do the girls. Lydia has to figure out how to talk to her friends when they don't understand why the boys' attention makes her feel scared, not flattered.
- An Emotional Journey: Readers will root for Lydia as she finds her strength in the most unexpected place?a rundown house that might just hold the answers she's been looking for.
