About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing the sudden, inexplicable loss of a sibling or friend and needs to see their shock reflected in a safe space. It is an ideal choice for families looking to validate the messy, often confusing emotions that follow a tragedy, such as feeling protective of others while simultaneously wanting to lash out at well meaning but clumsy adults. Thirteen year old Kate tells the story of an idyllic summer week spent with her sister Joss and a rented horse, which ends abruptly when Joss dies in a freak accident. The narrative moves from the warmth of a dream come true to the cold reality of grief, exploring Kate's journey through anger and sadness toward a place of quiet remembrance. This classic middle grade novel offers a secular, grounded perspective on healing that emphasizes the power of memory and the importance of remaining soft in a hard world.
