About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their teenager is struggling to navigate complex family dynamics, specifically regarding personal safety, boundaries, and the desire to break free from a cycles of generational hardship. This moving story follows seventeen-year-old Pert Lexie, a girl living in a poverty-stricken community who finds solace and expression through her art. When a betrayal by a family member shatters her sense of security, Pert must find the courage to protect herself and her younger siblings. It is a mature, realistic look at resilience and the difficult choices involved in claiming one's own future. Parents should be aware that the book addresses heavy themes like sexual harassment and systemic poverty, making it most suitable for older teens who are ready for honest conversations about consent and independence. It offers a powerful message about the strength found in creativity and the necessity of standing up for one's own worth even when the odds feel stacked against you.
