About This Book
A parent should reach for this book when their teenager is hiding stress behind a wall of irritability or struggling to balance adult family responsibilities with their own dreams. It is particularly helpful for kids who feel they have to be 'the strong one' or who use a tough exterior to protect themselves from being hurt. Noelle is a dedicated cellist and high-achieving student whose life is upended when her father loses his job, forcing her into a grueling schedule at her grandparents' restaurant. The story explores the intersection of economic anxiety, academic pressure, and the discovery of queer identity. While Noelle is labeled the 'mean girl' of her group, the book reveals the vulnerability and love driving her choices. It is a realistic and grounded look at urban teenage life, emphasizing that it is okay to let others in when things get hard. Parents will appreciate the nuanced portrayal of family loyalty and the healthy processing of complex emotions.
