Incredibly shy 11-year-old Bea looks forward to spending a month at Camp Shalom with her best friend Frankie. Without warning, Frankie heads to Circle M, a pricey horse camp. At Camp Shalom, Bea makes two new friends: Regan, a girl visiting from Ireland, and Harry, the camp director’s son, who has progeria, a genetic disorder. Stress causes Bea to break out in hives and spend time at the infirmary away from her cabin mates and her crush, Frankie’s brother. Harry helps out in the infirmary. Both enjoy their time together, and their conversations help Harry move beyond his physical appearance and join some camp activities. The camp musical for parent night is Annie. Bea avoids the auditions and downplays her singing ability. When Regan unexpectedly leaves the camp, Bea steps into the starring role. The characters work through age-appropriate drama, including misunderstandings, relationships, accepting differences, and building self-confidence.

296 pp., 5 × 7.5"

Source: Association of Book Publishers of BC - BC Books for Schools (2021-2022)

Joanne Levy is the author of the award-winning Sorry For Your Loss, a book set in a funeral home inspired by the one her dad manages. Her other books include The Sun Will Come Out, Fish Out of Water, and Bird Brain. She can usually be found at her computer, either creating spreadsheets (sometimes just for fun) or channeling her younger self into books. Joanne lives in rural Ontario, Canada, with her husband and several pets, one of whom vomited during the writing of this bio.

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• Commended, BC Books for BC Schools

“Levy’s work is sweet and inspiring…Through this realistic depiction of a shy girl’s first summer away from home, this novel teaches its reader that being different doesn’t may you an outcast and that this is always a silver lining.”

Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Canadian Children’s Book News

“A story very much on target for its pre-teen audience, especially its pre-teen Jewish audience. Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“The challenges Bea faces will be familiar to readers of all backgrounds…She is a realistic and relatable eleven-year-old girl who learns and grows in a delightful coming-of-age tale.”

Association of Jewish Libraries (AJL)

“The story gives voice to the experience of Jewish preteens; chronic illness and disability are also sensitively tackled in this complex tale about difference, acceptance, and self-confidence. A heartfelt tear-jerker about love, friendship, and courage.”

Kirkus Reviews

“Books about gaining independence at summer camp are a crowded field, but there is plenty of room for this sweet, fresh take.”

School Library Journal (SLJ)

“Levy's narrative is spot on.”

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