Right as Rain - by Lindsey Stoddard (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A Kirkus Best Book of 2019!

From the critically acclaimed author of Just Like Jackie comes a strikingly tender novel about one family's heartbreak and the compassion that carries them through, perfect for fans of Sara Pennypacker, Lisa Graff, and Ann M. Martin.

It's been almost a year since Rain's brother Guthrie died, and her parents still don't know it was all Rain's fault. In fact, no one does--Rain buried her secret deep, no matter how heavy it weighs on her heart.

So when her mom suggests moving the family from Vermont to New York City, Rain agrees. But life in the big city is different. She's never seen so many people in one place--or felt more like an outsider.

With her parents fighting more than ever and the anniversary of Guthrie's death approaching, Rain is determined to keep her big secret close to her heart. But even she knows that when you bury things deep, they grow up twice as tall.

Readers will fall in love with the pluck and warmth of Stoddard's latest heroine and the strength that even a small heart can lend.

A heartbreaking secret is weighing her down. But a pair of running shoes might be the only thing that can help her find her footing.

• A Heartbreaking Family Secret: Rain is the only one who knows the truth about the night her brother Guthrie died. The guilt is tearing her family apart, and she's determined to keep it buried.
• An Unlikely Friendship: After moving from small-town Vermont to New York City, Rain feels like a total outsider--until she meets two other runners on the track team who see past her quiet exterior.
• Running as an Escape: The only time Rain's brain goes quiet is when her feet are flying over the pavement. Joining the team might be her only chance to outrun her grief.
• A Hopeful Story of Healing: A tender, poignant, and ultimately hopeful novel about finding your way through grief, perfect for readers of Katherine Applegate and Sara Pennypacker.

Review Quotes

PRAISE FOR Just Like Jackie: "I was truly moved by this refreshing story about a scrappy young heroine and her struggle to protect her family." - Sara Pennypacker, New York Times bestselling author of PAX

"A story about scratching the surface (and welcoming what you find below). It's also a lovely story of acceptance - about what makes a family and how we make our own families, and about embracing our differences." - Ann M. Martin, New York Times bestselling author of Rain Reign

"As close to perfect as a book for middle-grade children can get! Readers will cheer for Robbie as she comes to terms with the family she has and finds the family she needs." - Cammie McGovern, author of Just My Luck

"A coming-of-age novel as feisty, funny, and forthright as its protagonist. Robinson overcomes obstacles with wit, grit, and a growing compassion for others, showing us that families are what we make them and happiness is found in the simple gifts we take for granted. A rich, rewarding read." - John David Anderson, author of Ms. Bixby's Last Day

"Stoddard debuts with a quiet but powerful narrative that gently unpacks Alzheimer's, centers mental health, and moves through the intimate and intense emotional landscape of family--what seems to break one and what can remake it. Validating, heart-rending, and a deft blend of suffering and inspiration." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"This emotionally honest, sensitively written novel confronts a range of difficult topics and offers an inclusive view of what family can look like." - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

★ "This touching middle grade novel addresses the heartache of loss while also providing an insightful, accessible introduction to privilege, homelessness, and gentrification. Honest, gut-wrenching, and hopeful, this is a story about letting people in and discovering you're a part of something larger." - School Library Journal (starred review)

"A home-run story that will resonate with all who feel they might not fit into the perfect definition of a family." - School Library Journal

Selected as a Top Ten Kids' Indie Next title

"Stoddard has written a beautiful story about a resilient girl many readers will be able to relate to, and she gently hits on tough topics, such as death and divorce, in a tender and truthful manner." - Booklist

★ "Timely, well-integrated themes, a vibrant setting, and well-drawn, likable characters make this a winner." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"Stoddard excels at low-key atmosphere and characterization. Rain's an admirably strong and sensitive heroine, and her approach to a tough transition will appeal to many readers." - Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"Stoddard has a knack for writing strong, feisty protagonists [and] her exploration of grief's grip on a family rings true and tender. A remarkable job." - New York Times Book Review