It's 1965, Los Angeles. All twelve-year-old Sophie wants to do is write her book, star in the community play, and hang out with her friend Jennifer. But she's the new black kid in a nearly all-white neighborhood; her beloved sister, Lily, is going away to college soon; and her parents' marriage is rocky. There's also her family's new, disapproving housekeeper to deal with. When riots erupt in nearby Watts and a friend is unfairly arrested, Sophie learns that life-and her own place in it-is even more complicated than she'd once thought.
Leavened with gentle humor, this story is perfect for fans of Rita Williams-Garcia. What does it mean to grow up when the world around you is in turmoil? A Heartfelt Coming of Age Story: Twelve-year-old Sophie navigates her first year as a teenager, dealing with a changing family, a new neighborhood, and discovering her own place in a complex world. Vivid Historical Fiction: Step back into 1965 Los Angeles, a city on the brink of change, as a major historical event unfolds through the eyes of a young girl.
Exploring Sisterhood: Sophie faces a lonely house as her beloved older sister, Lily, prepares for college, all while their parents' rocky marriage creates tension at home. Friendship and Belonging: As the first Black family on her block, Sophie must find her footing, from dealing with prejudiced neighbors to building a crucial friendship with the girl across the street.
It's 1965, Los Angeles. All twelve-year-old Sophie wants to do is write her book, star in the community play, and hang out with her friend Jennifer. But she's the new black kid in a nearly all-white neighborhood; her beloved sister, Lily, is going away to college soon; and her parents' marriage is rocky. There's also her family's new, disapproving housekeeper to deal with. When riots erupt in nearby Watts and a friend is unfairly arrested, Sophie learns that life-and her own place in it-is even more complicated than she'd once thought.
Leavened with gentle humor, this story is perfect for fans of Rita Williams-Garcia. What does it mean to grow up when the world around you is in turmoil? A Heartfelt Coming of Age Story: Twelve-year-old Sophie navigates her first year as a teenager, dealing with a changing family, a new neighborhood, and discovering her own place in a complex world. Vivid Historical Fiction: Step back into 1965 Los Angeles, a city on the brink of change, as a major historical event unfolds through the eyes of a young girl.
Exploring Sisterhood: Sophie faces a lonely house as her beloved older sister, Lily, prepares for college, all while their parents' rocky marriage creates tension at home. Friendship and Belonging: As the first Black family on her block, Sophie must find her footing, from dealing with prejudiced neighbors to building a crucial friendship with the girl across the street.