About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the weight of academic pressure or feels like their self-worth is entirely tied to being the best in the room. This story follows Grace, a high-achieving eighth grader who loses her top-scholar ranking to her former best friend, Jonah. When she decides to beat him in a half-marathon over the summer to regain her sense of superiority, she is forced to confront the toxic nature of her own perfectionism. This is a gentle but firm look at the transition from middle to high school, exploring how the drive to win at all costs can actually prevent us from enjoying our lives and our relationships. It is highly appropriate for ages 10 to 14, providing a roadmap for kids who need to learn how to fail, pivot, and find value in the process rather than just the trophy.
