There is a lot of fear right now. There is a lot of anger. No one knows what is going to happen and very many people are hurt or upset.

It took me a long time to figure out the exact words to start THE CHAOS COURT. I mean them now more than ever.

The day Patience Fell turned twelve, she bid farewell to her family farm.

Her father gave her a firm handshake. “Be kind,” he said.

Her mother gave her a brand-new broom. “Work hard.”

Her seven brothers and sisters gave her one hug each.

“You’ll do fine,” her parents said together after the hugging was done.

Nothing that happens today or tomorrow or next month or for the rest of your life can keep you from being kind. Or working hard.

You will do fine.