Rain Rising

Gr 3-7–Encouraging mental health support gets another impressive boost from Comrie’s debut about Black 13-year-old Rain who can’t escape thoughts of “You’re ugly./ You’re not good enough./ You’re worthless./ Nobody likes you./ Only bad things happen.” With her rich, versatile voice, actor Pean vividly strengthens Comrie’s verses and ensures every word gets distinctly heard. Home is hard for Rain: Mom’s always working to keep the family afloat; Dad’s neglectfully unreliable; at least brilliant, beloved big brother Xander is her greatest hero. When X is viciously attacked by racist white fraternity boys during a college visit, his subsequent withdrawal, even from Rain, leaves her without a lifeline. Seeking and accepting help—from authentic new friends, a school counselor, Circle Group—enables Rain Rising.