Rain Rising

8,An inspiring debut middle grade novel-in-verse about Rain, who must overcome sadness after her all-star brother is badly beaten up at a frat party. Genesis Begins Again meets Brown Girl Dreaming in this powerful story of perseverance, family, and hope.A gorgeous debut: a necessary, cathartic, immersive healing experience. --Kirkus Reviews (starred review)In this gut-wrenching verse novel by debut author Comrie, thirteen-year-old City Middle School student Rain Washington grapples with the aftermath of a violent racist attack. . . . Comrie sensitively tackles myriad topics, including colorism, fiscal scarcity, and structural racism, as well as their effects on mental health, in this impressive volume. --Publishers Weekly (starred review)This lovingly crafted novel-in-verse is a much-needed reminder that compassion, both for oneself and others, can help make the world right as rain. --Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)A searing exploration of the intricacies of racism, privilege, and self-worth within the confines of the Black community. Rain's journey is one that includes an acceptance of all the pieces of her identity that make her whole and unique. --ALA BooklistRain is keeping a big secret from everyone around her: She's sad. All the time. Rain struggles with her image and feels inferior to her best friend, Nara. Not even her all-star student-athlete big brother (and personal superhero), Xander, can help Rain with her dark thoughts and low self-esteem.And when Xander becomes the victim of violence at a predominantly white university, Rain's life and mind take a turn for the worse. But when her favorite teacher, Miss Walia, invites her to an after-school circle group, Rain finds the courage to help herself and her family heal.Like the rain, she is both gentle and a force, finding strength to rise again.You can't help but fall in love with this book. Heartbreaking, emotional, and a ride well worth taking. --Marie Arnold, author of The Year I Flew Away and I RiseEveryone who reads this will be inspired by Rain's dedication to finding healing. --Elisabet Velasquez, author of When We Make ItA 2023 Bank Street Books Best Children's Book of the Year for Ages 12-14 in Fiction (Contemporary Issues)!A 2025 Evergreen Teen Book Award nominee!