Lily has a promise to keep, but every word feels huge.
Before her dad died, eleven-year-old Lily promised him she would Strive for Five by speaking up at least five times. Now she is starting sixth grade in public school for the first time, carrying grief, shyness, and a wish that life could feel less lonely. New friends Hobart and Dunya help her believe that school might not be all bad, even when a cruel group begins targeting them.
As Lily tries to find her voice, she learns that speaking up is not just about being brave in one big moment. It can mean defending a friend, asking for help, or believing your words matter. With thoughtful emotion and a surprising narrator named Libro, this middle grade novel explores grief, friendship, bullying, and the courage it takes to be heard.
237 Pages
