"The subjects are heavy, but Army's young voice infuses them with humor and warmth, even when her path forward seems uncertain. 'Just go with it and make things happen before you totally understand how to do all of it,' Army suggests, a hard-won lesson that young readers will take to heart." -- Booklist "In short chapters told from Army's earnest first-person perspective, she finds new ways to negotiate with her caring but emotionally reserved parents and steps out of her own comfort zone; this exploration of family dynamics is where the novel shines." -- Kirkus Reviews "With moments of humor, Vernick ( Two Naomis ) weaves together a well-paced story that explores grief in all its raw pain, as well as the power of friends, family, and community to help heal." -- Publishers Weekly "Army's connection with Madison and her family illuminates Army's character, her kindness and conscientiousness shining through even when she's subdued by grief. The premise makes for an arresting booktalk, and readers who come for the drama will stay for Army's recovery." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books.
After the Worst Thing Happens