A fantastic book to start the new year! We meet Sam at age seven, and this gorgeously written coming-of-age novel follows her until early adulthood. Living with her single mom and younger brother, her itinerant father introduces her to climbing, at which she begins to excel. The climbing, falling and failing, is a metaphor for much of Sam’s life and although her struggles are many, her story is ultimately hopeful. Starred reviews all over—put this one on your list.
-Di