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I started reading this novel knowing only that a girl with asthma meets a boy who seems shrouded in dust. I was blown away by the depth of this story that believably presents hard, sensitive topics in an appropriate way for middle graders. While there is an element of fantasy woven throughout, difficult situations are realistically presented with characters who draw you in and who stay with you long afterward. We see 12-year-old Avalyn gradually becoming empowered by the situations she faces. I could not put this book down and read it straight through. Then I went and read it again. This is a powerful story that should be required reading for grades 5-8. There is a section entitled “Author’s Notes� which provides additional information and a personal message to her young readers. Highly recommended.

Thank you to NetGalley and Little Brown Books for Young Readers for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.