About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when their child is carrying the heavy weight of 'survivor guilt' or feeling responsible for a family tragedy that was beyond their control. This story follows thirteen-year-old Dellie, who is navigating life in the projects while crushed by the memory of her younger brother's accidental death. It is a deeply moving exploration of grief, poverty, and the paralyzing fear that often follows loss. While the themes are intense, the book provides a roadmap for healing through community connection and self-forgiveness. It is most appropriate for mature middle schoolers who are ready to discuss complex family dynamics, the realities of urban hardship, and the slow process of coming back to life after a devastating blow. Parents will find it a valuable tool for normalizing the messy, often angry stages of grief and showing that helping others is a powerful way to help oneself.
