Joy, an eleven-year-old often called "Bruiser" by her dad, isn't as tough as she appears.
8-9 Years
7.7" x 5.4" Hardcover
288 Pages
Juvenile Fiction, Social Themes

Description

Book Synopsis

Joy, an eleven-year-old often called "Bruiser" by her dad, isn't as tough as she appears.

With her dad gone and her mom falling into depression, the responsibility of managing the household and caring for her younger brother, Ian, falls on her small shoulders. She struggles with the reality of wearing old clothes that no longer fit and constantly dealing with Ian's hunger. Joy lives in fear that the school counselor might contact Child Protective Services due to their situation.

One day, a baby bird falls from its nest, reminding Joy of her dad's warning, "You don't know your own strength." Desperate for help, Joy strikes a deal with their quirky neighbor, Ezzie, known as the "Ark Lady." Through this new relationship, Joy, Ian, and her friend embark on a journey to restore the garden. In the process, they discover the concept of "rewilding," which brings unexpected beauty and healing. This experience leads Joy to question her father's views, opening her eyes to new possibilities and strengths within herself.

Review Quotes

"A realistic portrayal of a tween doing her best to hold her fractured family together; a poignant must-have for all middle grade collections."--School Library Journal

-- (6/1/2025 12:00:00 AM)

Specifications

Dimensions (Overall): 7.7 Inches (H) x 5.4 Inches (W) x 1.2 Inches (D)

Weight: .8 Pounds

Suggested Age: 8-9 Years

Number of Pages: 288

Genre: Juvenile Fiction

Sub-Genre: Social Themes

Publisher: One ELM Books

Format: Hardcover

Author: Lisa Gerlits

Language: English

Street Date: August 5, 2025

TCIN: 1002787218

UPC: 9798991123709

Item Number (DPCI): 247-37-6754

Origin: Made in the USA or Imported

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Shipping & Returns

Shipping details

Estimated ship dimensions: 1.2 inches length x 5.4 inches width x 7.7 inches height

Estimated ship weight: 0.8 pounds

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Return details

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Q&A (1)

Q: What is the main theme of the book?

AI Shopping Assistant - 6 days ago

A: The main theme revolves around family struggles, resilience, and personal growth through the experience of 'rewilding'.
submitted byAI Shopping Assistant - 6 days ago
Ai generated