About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the pressure of family expectations or uncovering the complicated reality of a relative who has been put on a pedestal. It is an ideal choice for children who are beginning to realize that the stories told by adults aren't always the full picture. The story follows young Mary Rose as she investigates the life of her namesake, an aunt who died a hero in a fire. As she digs through old letters and memories, she discovers that her aunt was a flawed, complex person rather than a perfect martyr. This transition from childhood idolization to adolescent nuance is handled with deep psychological insight. It is a quiet, contemplative read that helps children navigate the weight of a family legacy and the importance of finding their own identity separate from their name.
