Overview

An inspiring debut middle grade novel-in-verse about Rain, who must overcome sadness after her all-star brother is badly beaten up at a frat party. Genesis Begins Again meets Brown Girl Dreaming in this powerful story of perseverance, family, and hope. """"A gorgeous debut: a necessary, cathartic, immersive healing experience."" --Kirkus Reviews (starred review) ""In this gut-wrenching verse novel by debut author Comrie, thirteen-year-old City Middle School student Rain Washington grapples with the aftermath of a violent racist attack. . . . Comrie sensitively tackles myriad topics, including colorism, fiscal scarcity, and structural racism, as well as their effects on mental health, in this impressive volume."""" --Publishers Weekly (starred review) ""This lovingly crafted novel-in-verse is a much-needed reminder that compassion, both for oneself and others, can help make the world right as rain."" --Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review) ""A searing exploration of the intricacies of racism, privilege, and self-worth within the confines of the Black community. Rain's journey is one that includes an acceptance of all the pieces of her identity that make her whole and unique."" --ALA Booklist Rain is keeping a big secret from everyone around her: She's sad. All the time. Rain struggles with her image and feels inferior to her best friend, Nara. Not even her all-star student-athlete big brother (and personal superhero), Xander, can help Rain with her dark thoughts and low self-esteem. And when Xander becomes the victim of violence at a predominantly white university, Rain's life and mind take a turn for the worse. But when her favorite teacher, Miss Walia, invites her to an after-school circle group, Rain finds the courage to help herself and her family heal. Like the rain, she is both gentle and a force, finding strength to rise again. ""You can't help but fall in love with this book. Heartbreaking, emotional, and a ride well worth taking."" --Marie Arnold, author of The Year I Flew Away and I Rise ""Everyone who reads this will be inspired by Rain's dedication to finding healing."" --Elisabet Velasquez, author of When We Make It A 2023 Bank Street Books Best Children's Book of the Year for Ages 12-14 in Fiction (Contemporary Issues)! A 2025 Evergreen Teen Book Award nominee!

Full Product Details

9798212036504

Table of Contents

Reviews

Author Information

Courtne Comrie is a poet and writer who prefers tackling heavy topics through simplistic and beautiful verse. Born in Toronto, Canada, but raised in the Bronx and Mount Vernon, New York, she graduated from CUNY Lehman College with a BA in creative writing through TheDream.US scholarship for undocumented students. She is an educator, mentor, and an aunt to three amazing humans. Visit her online at www.courtnecomrie.com. Angel Pean is an actor and narrator who thrives on the power of storytelling and being a part of impactful projects that leave their mark. She made her way from Houston, Texas, to NYC to attend the New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts. There, she obtained a degree in film and television performance. Angel has had the pleasure of training with several coaches and actors, including Jay R. Goldenberg, Maury Ginsberg, and Ruth Nerken. Her love for storytelling, as well as reading, eventually led her to explore the beautiful world of audiobooks! She began studying with narrator and coach, Elise Arsenault, has since built a home studio, and recently finished narrating her very first book: The Vampire's Assistant by Eva Alton, a romantic fantasy now available on Audible. In her free time, you'll certainly find her lounging around with her cat, or dancing. Angel currently resides in Atlanta, Georgia, where she is continuing to audition, work, and hone her craft.

Tab Content 6

Countries Available