About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is navigating a sudden family transition, such as a move or a change in household dynamics, and seems to be retreating into their own world. It is a quiet, atmospheric story that validates the feeling of being kept in the dark by adults while celebrating the resilience found in creative expression. The story follows twelve year old Raine as she is uprooted to a mysterious artists' colony for the summer, where she discovers that silence and observation can lead to deep self discovery. This novel is particularly suited for reflective children who appreciate a slow burn mystery and a gentle pace. It beautifully handles themes of family secrets, the importance of artistic community, and the process of finding one's voice. While it addresses the pain of feeling excluded from adult decisions, it offers a comforting, sophisticated look at how children can forge their own identities through writing and art. It is a secular, realistic story that provides a safe space for middle grade readers to process complex emotions about belonging.
