Summary
This luminous, haunting debut, alternating between now and then, reality and magic, tells the story of a girl confronting heartbreak while at a mysterious recovery program in the wilderness.
“Prose and poetry weave the story of an inner journey of intense emotion, fantastical adventure, and, ultimately, healing.” - Kirkus Review
When seventeen-year-old Eli arrives at Raeth, an isolated mountain retreat for teens with mental health issues, her mind is made up—she is not interes…
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9780593618929 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 0593618920 |
| Author: | Ashley Wilda |
| Publisher: | Penguin Young Readers |
| Imprint: | Penguin Young Readers |
| Format: | Hardcover |
| Number of Pages: | 336 |
| Release Date: | 23 January 2024 |
| Weight: | 425g |
| Dimensions: | 27mm x 146mm x 216mm |
| Audience Age: | 12 |
Critics Review
“Told in luminous prose and poetry, this powerful journey will stir your imagination and leave an indelible mark.”—An Na, Printz Award -winning author of A Step from Heaven
“A stunning debut threaded with strands of luminous poetry and love of the natural world, in all of its griefs and joys.”—Jeff Zentner, Morris Award-winning author of The Serpent King
“An evocative, imaginative story about our emotional landscapes and the quest for mental health and independence. Prose and poetry weave the story of an inner journey of intense emotion, fantastical adventure, and, ultimately, healing.”—Kirkus Review
“All the components ofthe story work, from the fantastastical setting to the poignant scenes of Eli grappling with distressing feelings.Readers will find complexity in Eli’s navigating expanding beliefs and new experiences while staying true to a worldview she feels certain of, especially in how she approaches the beliefs—or non-beliefs—of romantic partners.Sparingly few curse words, no violence, and chaste romance will make this a great fit for younger and older teenslooking for a comforting read with high emotional stakes and a gratifying bit of magic.”—BCCB
“In an emotional and whimsical debut, Ashley Wilda weaves the present and past together to paint astory of pain and healing. Readers who enjoy stories of angst and introspection in liminal environments will appreciate Eli’s narrative. Teens familiar with the Tumblr culture—particularly its emo aesthetic—will also find plenty to recognize in the alternating prose and verse.”—Booklist
Ashley Wilda
Ashley Wilda has an MFA in Creative Writing for Children and Young Adults from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. In addition to writing, they love painting, making ceramics, playing music, rock climbing, and hiking with their rescue pup, Phoenix.
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