Right as Rain

Gr 4–7—Stoddard's sophomore effort is an emotional exploration of grief, guilt, and the uplifting power of community. Following the death of her older brother, Guthrie, 10-year-old Rain and her family leave Vermont for Washington Heights in New York City. Guthrie's death has affected her parents in vastly different ways. Her mother is in constant motion and avoids any talk of her son. Her father rarely leaves his bedroom, shutting himself off from the world. Their conflicting coping methods create a tense household that forces Rain to bury her feelings deep. Spare flashbacks to the tragic night unfold throughout the novel and slowly reveal Rain's painful memories and misplaced guilt. Rain also struggles to transition to her new neighborhood, where the majority of people don't look like her and the storefront signs are in Spanish. By opening up to new friendships and embracing her community, Rain develops a growing sense of empathy that allows her to recognize that pain is universal and creating connections is the key to healing. One of Rain's most important relationships is with classmate Frankie, whose icy demeanor hides her loneliness. The girls bond through their shared love of running track, which provides freedom from the pressure of their everyday lives. This touching middle grade novel addresses the heartache of loss while also providing an insightful, accessible introduction to privilege, homelessness, and gentrification.