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Hidden Truths
How far would you go to keep a promise? Told from alternating points of view, Hidden Truths is a story of changing friendships, the lies we tell, the secrets we keep, and the healing power of forgiveness.
Dani and Eric have been best friends since Dani moved next door in second grade. They bond over donuts, comic books, and camping on the Cape.
Until one summer when everything changes.
Did Eric cause the accident that leaves Dani unable to do the one thing in the world she most cares about? The question plagues him, and he will do anything to get answers about the explosion that injured her. But Dani is hurting too much to want Eric to pursue the truth--she just wants to shut him out and move on. Besides, Eric has a history of dropping things he starts. Eric knows that and is determined that this will be the one time he follows through.
But what if his pursuit brings him into direct conflict with another friend? Where does Eric's loyalty really lie?
Dani and Eric have been best friends since Dani moved next door in second grade. They bond over donuts, comic books, and camping on the Cape.
Until one summer when everything changes.
Did Eric cause the accident that leaves Dani unable to do the one thing in the world she most cares about? The question plagues him, and he will do anything to get answers about the explosion that injured her. But Dani is hurting too much to want Eric to pursue the truth--she just wants to shut him out and move on. Besides, Eric has a history of dropping things he starts. Eric knows that and is determined that this will be the one time he follows through.
But what if his pursuit brings him into direct conflict with another friend? Where does Eric's loyalty really lie?
264 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 31, 2023
70 people are currently reading
3099 people want to read
About the author
Elly Swartz
6 books221 followersElly Swartz is the award-winning author of seven middle grade novels: Finding Perfect, Smart Cookie, Give and Take, Dear Student, Hidden Truths, Same Page and Almost True (2027).
Swartz’s books reflect her commitment to raising awareness about mental health and neurodiversity. Her most recent novel, Same Page, was recommended by The New York Times. Finding Perfect, her debut, was named one of the Best Children’s Books About Mental Health by the Child Mind Institute. Dear Student was recommended by Parents Magazine and won the PA State Award for Middle Grade, and Hidden Truths received starred reviews from Kirkus and School Library Journal, was a Kirkus Best Books of 2023, an Amazon Best Book for November, an Amazon Editors’ pick, and has been nominated for state awards in MA, MO, and NJ.
Swartz travels the country meeting with thousands of students each year to empower their own personal narrative.
Swartz lives in Massachusetts and is happily married with two grown sons, a grandson, and two pups. Connect with her at ellyswartz.com, on Twitter @ellyswartz, and on Instagram, Bluesky, or Threads @ellyswartzbooks.
Swartz’s books reflect her commitment to raising awareness about mental health and neurodiversity. Her most recent novel, Same Page, was recommended by The New York Times. Finding Perfect, her debut, was named one of the Best Children’s Books About Mental Health by the Child Mind Institute. Dear Student was recommended by Parents Magazine and won the PA State Award for Middle Grade, and Hidden Truths received starred reviews from Kirkus and School Library Journal, was a Kirkus Best Books of 2023, an Amazon Best Book for November, an Amazon Editors’ pick, and has been nominated for state awards in MA, MO, and NJ.
Swartz travels the country meeting with thousands of students each year to empower their own personal narrative.
Swartz lives in Massachusetts and is happily married with two grown sons, a grandson, and two pups. Connect with her at ellyswartz.com, on Twitter @ellyswartz, and on Instagram, Bluesky, or Threads @ellyswartzbooks.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
December 4, 2023
✰ 3 stars ✰
“Do I get credit for saving her life if I’m the one who put her in danger?”
For it's this burning question that plays a critical part in Elly Swartz's latest Middle Grade novel Hidden Truths, the story of best friends, Eric and Dani, and how their friendship is severely put to the test when Eric unwittingly is to blame for a life-altering accident that deeply affects Dani's life. I feel a little odd as to why I didn't like this as much as I should have, but I'm sure there are reasons for those, which hopefully, I can find out, as I voice out my thoughts. 🤔
“It reminds me of me.
And a friend who knows my heart.”
I was really caught off-guard when the accident took place, but props to the author for how it was written - that was - wow. 😢 'I didn’t know fear had a smell. Until now.' And then from there on, I appreciated how the narrative was told in dual pov, allowing Eric and Dani's characters to develop their own distinctive voices. Dani's frustrations over all the time she would lose, her physical restraints and restrictions - her attempts to readjust her life to her new struggles were palpable. A month before my sixteenth birthday, a vicious storm blew through our city. A stupid move on my part, I leaned against a door, with my hand in the doorframe, while the gales of wind blew outside through the windows. I turned my head, and before I could move, the door slammed against my fingers - even now, I can't bend my left hand's ring finger and pinky entirely. Yet, seeing Dani's steps to recovery and her anxious feelings of helplessness and dependency on others reminded me of that time in my life. 'But if I’m being honest, it kind of feels like there’s a giant mountain between this and better.' It was written honestly and believably so that I could relate to it, and so too was her rejection of Eric - how she was hurting and blaming him and didn't see beyond her own pain to know that he was hurting for her, too. 💔
I sympathized with Eric - it's not his fault he has ADHD, it's not his fault that he has to take the blame, it's not his fault that he keeps trying and trying to do what's right, but he never seems to catch a break - from his bullies or his so-called friends. The hurt and grief that shattered him was hard to read, but it was even harder to know that in such a critical time - he does have to exhibit patience and understanding. '...all I see is the wave of sadness that crashed between Dani and me when I told her my truth.' For every instance that Dani did verbally hurt him, it's that quiet courage to stay silent - to know that she is speaking from a hurting heart - made me appreciate him even more, and helped him stand up against the odds stacked against him. It's his very silence that made Dani see how much she was in the wrong, that really stood out for me and gave Dani the courage to see how much she was in the wrong and how much their friendship still meant the world to both of them. 🥺
“No one gets it right all the time. We all make mistakes.”
I think about Eric and me and the things I did and didn’t do.
“It’s what we do after those mistakes that counts.”
Friendships can be messy - they can be hurtful and spiteful, especially when you're hurting, too, no matter how much you may not agree with what you're saying, it still feels good to say it. And I felt that it was portrayed really well - as much as I hurt for both of them, Dani was hurting, and she wanted Eric to hurt for what he may or may have not done for her to end up the way that she did. But, what I admired so much, is that Eric never lost heart - for every hurt, it pushed him to help her even more - not so much to prove his innocence, but for her to never forget that he will always be her best friend. 🥹 And for every good that he did - for every jab that she attacked him with, even when her heart wasn't in it - she forgave him even more. And that's a beautiful display of friendships surviving - of forgiveness and for growing up and learning from one's mistakes. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Perhaps I didn't enjoy it as much because of how painfully real it was - how so easily our feelings of resentment and anger at our own situation can have us forget years of friendship and toss aside feelings of sincerity and honesty. Eric and Dani behaved like children who are hurt and grieving, but still feel that they are in the right for neither of them intentionally meant for anything to happen, but it still did. It showed me that people can change for the better - and people who you assumed were good, can really be all that not good. 👍🏻 It's a tough pill to follow, but the author portrayed these relationships very realistically. In a way, it was their distance apart that helped them become better and closer friends, which, I suppose, in a way, was good for them - despite the hurt they both felt in the process. 🫂
“I do, sugar. That’s exactly the attitude that’s going to get you better, too. As for timing, all I know is the most important thing you can do right now is focus on healing your body.”
While I do appreciate how much it emphasized on safety precautions, but in the emphasis of Eric's efforts to ensure that what happened to Dani won't happen to anyone else ever again, I think the story lost a lot of it's - emotional depth. I do believe that it is important for children and parents to be mindful of the safety warnings that were mentioned, but I think that storyline made the story a bit more - hmmm, not political and not less enjoyable - just a bit out of the depth of what I felt the story could have stayed focused on. I admired his passion and drive, but it became more like a social statement rather than a more personal and intimate level that dimmed my enjoyment slightly. I know it's something that should be appreciated rather, but it made my attention span wane slightly for what could have been a more emotional and powerfully engaging read. 😔
“Do I get credit for saving her life if I’m the one who put her in danger?”
For it's this burning question that plays a critical part in Elly Swartz's latest Middle Grade novel Hidden Truths, the story of best friends, Eric and Dani, and how their friendship is severely put to the test when Eric unwittingly is to blame for a life-altering accident that deeply affects Dani's life. I feel a little odd as to why I didn't like this as much as I should have, but I'm sure there are reasons for those, which hopefully, I can find out, as I voice out my thoughts. 🤔
“It reminds me of me.
And a friend who knows my heart.”
I was really caught off-guard when the accident took place, but props to the author for how it was written - that was - wow. 😢 'I didn’t know fear had a smell. Until now.' And then from there on, I appreciated how the narrative was told in dual pov, allowing Eric and Dani's characters to develop their own distinctive voices. Dani's frustrations over all the time she would lose, her physical restraints and restrictions - her attempts to readjust her life to her new struggles were palpable. A month before my sixteenth birthday, a vicious storm blew through our city. A stupid move on my part, I leaned against a door, with my hand in the doorframe, while the gales of wind blew outside through the windows. I turned my head, and before I could move, the door slammed against my fingers - even now, I can't bend my left hand's ring finger and pinky entirely. Yet, seeing Dani's steps to recovery and her anxious feelings of helplessness and dependency on others reminded me of that time in my life. 'But if I’m being honest, it kind of feels like there’s a giant mountain between this and better.' It was written honestly and believably so that I could relate to it, and so too was her rejection of Eric - how she was hurting and blaming him and didn't see beyond her own pain to know that he was hurting for her, too. 💔
I sympathized with Eric - it's not his fault he has ADHD, it's not his fault that he has to take the blame, it's not his fault that he keeps trying and trying to do what's right, but he never seems to catch a break - from his bullies or his so-called friends. The hurt and grief that shattered him was hard to read, but it was even harder to know that in such a critical time - he does have to exhibit patience and understanding. '...all I see is the wave of sadness that crashed between Dani and me when I told her my truth.' For every instance that Dani did verbally hurt him, it's that quiet courage to stay silent - to know that she is speaking from a hurting heart - made me appreciate him even more, and helped him stand up against the odds stacked against him. It's his very silence that made Dani see how much she was in the wrong, that really stood out for me and gave Dani the courage to see how much she was in the wrong and how much their friendship still meant the world to both of them. 🥺
“No one gets it right all the time. We all make mistakes.”
I think about Eric and me and the things I did and didn’t do.
“It’s what we do after those mistakes that counts.”
Friendships can be messy - they can be hurtful and spiteful, especially when you're hurting, too, no matter how much you may not agree with what you're saying, it still feels good to say it. And I felt that it was portrayed really well - as much as I hurt for both of them, Dani was hurting, and she wanted Eric to hurt for what he may or may have not done for her to end up the way that she did. But, what I admired so much, is that Eric never lost heart - for every hurt, it pushed him to help her even more - not so much to prove his innocence, but for her to never forget that he will always be her best friend. 🥹 And for every good that he did - for every jab that she attacked him with, even when her heart wasn't in it - she forgave him even more. And that's a beautiful display of friendships surviving - of forgiveness and for growing up and learning from one's mistakes. ❤️🩹❤️🩹
Perhaps I didn't enjoy it as much because of how painfully real it was - how so easily our feelings of resentment and anger at our own situation can have us forget years of friendship and toss aside feelings of sincerity and honesty. Eric and Dani behaved like children who are hurt and grieving, but still feel that they are in the right for neither of them intentionally meant for anything to happen, but it still did. It showed me that people can change for the better - and people who you assumed were good, can really be all that not good. 👍🏻 It's a tough pill to follow, but the author portrayed these relationships very realistically. In a way, it was their distance apart that helped them become better and closer friends, which, I suppose, in a way, was good for them - despite the hurt they both felt in the process. 🫂
“I do, sugar. That’s exactly the attitude that’s going to get you better, too. As for timing, all I know is the most important thing you can do right now is focus on healing your body.”
While I do appreciate how much it emphasized on safety precautions, but in the emphasis of Eric's efforts to ensure that what happened to Dani won't happen to anyone else ever again, I think the story lost a lot of it's - emotional depth. I do believe that it is important for children and parents to be mindful of the safety warnings that were mentioned, but I think that storyline made the story a bit more - hmmm, not political and not less enjoyable - just a bit out of the depth of what I felt the story could have stayed focused on. I admired his passion and drive, but it became more like a social statement rather than a more personal and intimate level that dimmed my enjoyment slightly. I know it's something that should be appreciated rather, but it made my attention span wane slightly for what could have been a more emotional and powerfully engaging read. 😔
December 1, 2023
believe in the power of bibliotherapy: the idea that books can help us grow through what we go through. And I’ve found a middle grade author that delivers on this promise in every book she writes: Elly Swartz. I just finished Hidden Truths, a powerful novel about changing friendships and believing in who you are on the inside. Told in alternating chapters, we learn about best friends Dani and Eric, a powerful duo going through a challenging time. Dani is struggling to recover after a camping accident and Eric is grappling with his fears that he caused it. They keep their feelings bottled up on the inside and try to make sense of who they want to be on the outside. Readers will learn important lessons, but the one I’m walking away with close to my heart is this: Each one of us is enough just the way we are in this very moment and our idiosyncrasies don’t define us…they actually set us free. This book, along with Elly’s others, such as Finding Perfect, not only allows students to feel seen in the pages, they invite readers to see perspectives different than their own and to value them too. This is a must-read middle grade novel.
April 21, 2024
Wonderful children's book.....about trusting
March 23, 2023
When an author writes a book as outstanding as DEAR STUDENT, sometimes the next one is disappointing. Not in the case of Elly Swartz! HIDDEN TRUTHS is another fantastic middle grade read that has humor, action, realistic school personalities, drama, and warmth that will satisfy readers of her works and that of writers like McCall Hoyle, Lindsay Stoddard, and Barbara O’Connor.
Told in alternating perspectives of Eric and Dani, the depth and length of their friendship is made abundantly clear in just a few chapters. But when disaster hits and Dani’s joy over making the all-boy school baseball team and Eric’s guilt begin to take their toll, it also becomes clear that sometimes changes can be forever. Themes of determination, friendship, and honesty are woven into a realistic story that will satisfy all.
Thanks, NetGalley, for an advance look at this winner that is perfect for libraries serving grades 4-7. Text is free of profanity, sexual content, and violence. Families are diverse in make up, one oblique reference to a school friend who uses the pronouns “they/them,” and ethnic/racial characteristics are too vague to identify clearly, allowing readers to visualize for themselves.
Told in alternating perspectives of Eric and Dani, the depth and length of their friendship is made abundantly clear in just a few chapters. But when disaster hits and Dani’s joy over making the all-boy school baseball team and Eric’s guilt begin to take their toll, it also becomes clear that sometimes changes can be forever. Themes of determination, friendship, and honesty are woven into a realistic story that will satisfy all.
Thanks, NetGalley, for an advance look at this winner that is perfect for libraries serving grades 4-7. Text is free of profanity, sexual content, and violence. Families are diverse in make up, one oblique reference to a school friend who uses the pronouns “they/them,” and ethnic/racial characteristics are too vague to identify clearly, allowing readers to visualize for themselves.
June 27, 2023
Elly Swartz’s newest middle grade novel. Hidden Truths, is a heartfelt journey into the minds of two protagonists. Writing from alternate perspectives, readers meet Dani and Eric. They will touch the hearts, minds, and souls of anyone who devours the pages like I did! Themes of friendship and identity are prevalent as the story unfolds. We all have hidden truths, and it is up to each individual what they share. Consequences can happen as we learn with Dani and Eric. For educators or parents looking for a window into middle grade students dealing with change, learning how to apologize, and finding their super power this book is for you! Thank you Elly for putting this book into the universe. It is a must read! Thank you to Net Galley and Elly Swartz for a preview of this gem!
September 29, 2023
A great middle grade that covers a broad range of important topics. Elly captured that feeling of two characters growing up and then growing apart at that early teen age. Dani was a star… her passion for her baseball and her drive to be the first girl on the team was inspirational. Eric won my heart his emotions I really resonated with and I think kids will feel seen in both characters.
A great book that sheds light on an ending to a friendship, navigating new friends, bully’s and standing up for what is right.
A great book that sheds light on an ending to a friendship, navigating new friends, bully’s and standing up for what is right.
October 30, 2023
Best friends since second grade, Dani and Eric share almost everything. A love for donuts, comic books, and their annual trip to the Cape for camping. Over the summer, Eric has been working on a comic book and trying to muster his courage to finally talk to his crush while Dani was away at baseball camp. Dani loves everything about baseball, from her worn out glove, to standing on the mound and pitching a fast ball. She's always dreamed of pitching for the Mapleville all boy's baseball team and this year, after a lot of hard work, that dream has finally come true.
The best friends have eagerly been anticipating this year's camping trip, especially after last years was suddenly cancelled when Dani's grandmother passed away. Then the moment that changes everything happens. There is a huge explosion in the camper and Dani is trapped inside. Risking everything, Eric rushes back inside and pulls Dani out before the flames can engulf her in the camper. Unfortunately, Dani's leg is injured, and she sustains serious damage to her shoulder. Worst of all, her hopes for a year of playing baseball are quickly fleeting.
While Dani is undergoing treatment for the aftermath of her injury, Eric begins to second guess as to how the fire even got started. Then realization hits, could he have been the cause of the fire? Eric then begins to spiral with guilt and remorse. Meanwhile, Dani runs into Meadow, one of the popular girls from school who has been visiting her own sister in the hospital. The two hit it off and Meadow is a good distraction from Dani's injuries. The two further bond over making TikTok videos. Eric eventually visits Dani in the hospital and tries to come clean on his mistake, which ends up further pushing Dani away toward Meadow and angers Dani's mom. It isn't long before the whole school finds out about Eric's mistake and their friendship begins to fracture further. Meadow becomes a wedge between the two friends, even getting Dani to admit a few things on camera that puts Eric in a worse light, even though she really didn't mean them.
Soon Eric begins to spend time with his crush but is still focused on investigating the cause of the fire and in ensuring that this never happens again. When the fire report finally comes out stating that the explosion was due to a lithium battery in a remote-control car that they'd brought along on the trip, it isn't the relief that Eric had hoped for because it doesn't appear to be enough to mend their relationship. Can the two friends figure out a way to fix things between themselves and find a way to move forward?
Hidden Truths switches between the perspectives of our two main characters, Dani and Eric. Having this dual point of view makes the story so relatable and it realistically illustrates how each of them struggles internally about their feelings following the accident. I really emphasized with Eric's struggles and feelings of guilt as well as how difficult it was for Dani to lose the joy of something that she is so passionate about because of her injury. How her initial hope of returning to the team is changed as she undergoes therapy. I experienced this firsthand while working with individuals who sustained traumatic brain injuries. It's often very difficult to come to terms with finding a new norm after an injury. Our brains can be so resilient in developing new pathways following an injury but some physical changes result in permanent changes. It can be very difficult to come to terms with. Dani's treatment and recovery process through her real-life challenges will certainly allow the reader to feel empathy. I really liked Dani's strength and tenacity. Therapy is tough, and I felt the author really portrayed just how difficult it can be for the individual. Everything isn't perfectly resolved with Dani's injury at the end of the story, which gives this an authenticity that I appreciated.
Having this also in first-person narrative worked really well. I enjoyed Eric having a strong Jewish faith and his speaking to God to not only ask for forgiveness but to try and make deals with God to look after Dani. We learn how Eric's ADHD affects him and I especially appreciated his description of falling down rabbit holes i.e. where he can easily get distracted and then ends up being sidetracked by other things. In Eric's case, he explains that these rabbit holes are advantageous to him because he can look at things from more than one direction to find an answer. Eric also displayed a lot of strength in confessing to Dani that he might've caused the accident. There's a lot of hurt feelings between the two and they each make mistakes as they try and process things. I believe that these are feelings and emotions that children can easily relate too.
Overall, I really enjoyed Hidden Truths. I really appreciated all the research the author stated that she did in her acknowledgements and the input she received in order to ensure an accurate portrayal of recovery from an injury. Everything from consultations with professional in ADHD, fire inspectors, former baseball players, product safety commissions and even rehabilitation specialist. This story is also a testament to the bonds of friendship. That one can overcome difficult times and mend the mistakes made.
**A huge thank you to Wunderkind PR for the opportunity to read and review Hidden Truths. A beautiful story that you should instantly put on your must read list, you won't regret it!**
The best friends have eagerly been anticipating this year's camping trip, especially after last years was suddenly cancelled when Dani's grandmother passed away. Then the moment that changes everything happens. There is a huge explosion in the camper and Dani is trapped inside. Risking everything, Eric rushes back inside and pulls Dani out before the flames can engulf her in the camper. Unfortunately, Dani's leg is injured, and she sustains serious damage to her shoulder. Worst of all, her hopes for a year of playing baseball are quickly fleeting.
While Dani is undergoing treatment for the aftermath of her injury, Eric begins to second guess as to how the fire even got started. Then realization hits, could he have been the cause of the fire? Eric then begins to spiral with guilt and remorse. Meanwhile, Dani runs into Meadow, one of the popular girls from school who has been visiting her own sister in the hospital. The two hit it off and Meadow is a good distraction from Dani's injuries. The two further bond over making TikTok videos. Eric eventually visits Dani in the hospital and tries to come clean on his mistake, which ends up further pushing Dani away toward Meadow and angers Dani's mom. It isn't long before the whole school finds out about Eric's mistake and their friendship begins to fracture further. Meadow becomes a wedge between the two friends, even getting Dani to admit a few things on camera that puts Eric in a worse light, even though she really didn't mean them.
Soon Eric begins to spend time with his crush but is still focused on investigating the cause of the fire and in ensuring that this never happens again. When the fire report finally comes out stating that the explosion was due to a lithium battery in a remote-control car that they'd brought along on the trip, it isn't the relief that Eric had hoped for because it doesn't appear to be enough to mend their relationship. Can the two friends figure out a way to fix things between themselves and find a way to move forward?
Hidden Truths switches between the perspectives of our two main characters, Dani and Eric. Having this dual point of view makes the story so relatable and it realistically illustrates how each of them struggles internally about their feelings following the accident. I really emphasized with Eric's struggles and feelings of guilt as well as how difficult it was for Dani to lose the joy of something that she is so passionate about because of her injury. How her initial hope of returning to the team is changed as she undergoes therapy. I experienced this firsthand while working with individuals who sustained traumatic brain injuries. It's often very difficult to come to terms with finding a new norm after an injury. Our brains can be so resilient in developing new pathways following an injury but some physical changes result in permanent changes. It can be very difficult to come to terms with. Dani's treatment and recovery process through her real-life challenges will certainly allow the reader to feel empathy. I really liked Dani's strength and tenacity. Therapy is tough, and I felt the author really portrayed just how difficult it can be for the individual. Everything isn't perfectly resolved with Dani's injury at the end of the story, which gives this an authenticity that I appreciated.
Having this also in first-person narrative worked really well. I enjoyed Eric having a strong Jewish faith and his speaking to God to not only ask for forgiveness but to try and make deals with God to look after Dani. We learn how Eric's ADHD affects him and I especially appreciated his description of falling down rabbit holes i.e. where he can easily get distracted and then ends up being sidetracked by other things. In Eric's case, he explains that these rabbit holes are advantageous to him because he can look at things from more than one direction to find an answer. Eric also displayed a lot of strength in confessing to Dani that he might've caused the accident. There's a lot of hurt feelings between the two and they each make mistakes as they try and process things. I believe that these are feelings and emotions that children can easily relate too.
Overall, I really enjoyed Hidden Truths. I really appreciated all the research the author stated that she did in her acknowledgements and the input she received in order to ensure an accurate portrayal of recovery from an injury. Everything from consultations with professional in ADHD, fire inspectors, former baseball players, product safety commissions and even rehabilitation specialist. This story is also a testament to the bonds of friendship. That one can overcome difficult times and mend the mistakes made.
**A huge thank you to Wunderkind PR for the opportunity to read and review Hidden Truths. A beautiful story that you should instantly put on your must read list, you won't regret it!**
March 17, 2023
A MG story about loss, forgiveness and the power of friendship.
⚾️
Meet Dani: she’s back from baseball camp this summer and finally made the team as the first girl pitcher!
Meet Eric: He’s Dani’s best friend who’s been waiting for baseball camp to be over so they could use his father’s new camper out at the lake.
When they go with Eric’s dad, the camper catches on fire and it’s Eric who pulls an injured Dani out, saving her life. Unfortunately, Dani suffers several injuries that keep her from playing baseball this season. While she’s recovering the two best friends start drifting further apart as Eric searches for the truth of what happened with the fire and Dani tries to forget it and move on. Will they be able to get back to where they were before?
✏️
This was such a beautifully told middle grade book about two best friends growing up and growing apart, which usually does happen at this age. New friends, first crushes, struggling to stand up for one another—it was all so relatable for our kids and I teared up more than once. I loved the Jewish and ADHD representation, and @ellyswartzbooks did an amazing job describing grief, healing and the bond these two have for one another that has Eric so passionately devoted to the cause of shining a light on the responsible party of the fire. I downloaded and read this in one day. You’ll be just as invested when it releases October 31.
CW: hospitalization, fire, injuries, bullying, death of a grandparent (recounted)
⚾️
Meet Dani: she’s back from baseball camp this summer and finally made the team as the first girl pitcher!
Meet Eric: He’s Dani’s best friend who’s been waiting for baseball camp to be over so they could use his father’s new camper out at the lake.
When they go with Eric’s dad, the camper catches on fire and it’s Eric who pulls an injured Dani out, saving her life. Unfortunately, Dani suffers several injuries that keep her from playing baseball this season. While she’s recovering the two best friends start drifting further apart as Eric searches for the truth of what happened with the fire and Dani tries to forget it and move on. Will they be able to get back to where they were before?
✏️
This was such a beautifully told middle grade book about two best friends growing up and growing apart, which usually does happen at this age. New friends, first crushes, struggling to stand up for one another—it was all so relatable for our kids and I teared up more than once. I loved the Jewish and ADHD representation, and @ellyswartzbooks did an amazing job describing grief, healing and the bond these two have for one another that has Eric so passionately devoted to the cause of shining a light on the responsible party of the fire. I downloaded and read this in one day. You’ll be just as invested when it releases October 31.
CW: hospitalization, fire, injuries, bullying, death of a grandparent (recounted)
September 20, 2023
Hidden Truths is a great read! It shows how things can change between best friends in a variety of ways. Friends can grow about or find new friends or emotions can get in the way. After an accident comes between best friends they find it hard at times to talk to each other like they used to.
It's a coming-of-age and self-awareness story. I loved how Eric realized his full potential as someone who saw things differently than others typically see situations. His ADHD wasn't necessarily a bad thing but he needed to be more aware of himself and how he could make amends to his best friend Dani.
A must-have in all libraries. Also a great read-aloud for upper elementary and middle school classes.
@ellyswartz #HiddenTruths #SchoolLibrary #SchoolLibrarians #ReadABook #Books #Read #MGReads MGBooks #MGLit #NetGalley KidLit
It's a coming-of-age and self-awareness story. I loved how Eric realized his full potential as someone who saw things differently than others typically see situations. His ADHD wasn't necessarily a bad thing but he needed to be more aware of himself and how he could make amends to his best friend Dani.
A must-have in all libraries. Also a great read-aloud for upper elementary and middle school classes.
@ellyswartz #HiddenTruths #SchoolLibrary #SchoolLibrarians #ReadABook #Books #Read #MGReads MGBooks #MGLit #NetGalley KidLit
November 19, 2023
This book made me quite anxious and gave me so much hatred/sad energy in the first half that I just had to stop reading it. I would say it’s written well. The story is about two friends who drifts apart as one of them gets into an accident accidentally caused by the other. I know that things would get better between the two and the story will have a good closure. But I just couldn’t handle all the hate in the first half.
May 27, 2024
Elly Swartz is definitely one of my favorite middle grade authors. This was another great read from her!!
May 16, 2023
Hidden Truths was fantastic! Elly Swartz created a spot-on middle school friendship! I loved seeing how both main characters dealt with their truths. Students will identify with Eric and Dani immediately, and hopefully, they will analyze their own friendships in real life. I'm excited to add this one to our collection.
Thank you to Random House Children's Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to Random House Children's Delacorte Press and NetGalley for the ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book, and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 27, 2023
#FirstLine - I didn’t know today would matter.
I loved this book and here is why!!!
Hidden Truths is a captivating and emotionally charged story that explores the complexities of friendship, promises, and the profound impact of secrets and forgiveness.
Told through alternating perspectives, the narrative delves into the close-knit bond between Dani and Eric, two friends who've shared everything since they were kids. Their connection, formed over donuts, comic books, and summer adventures, is put to the test when a life-altering event shakes their world.
The heart of the story revolves around a haunting question: Did Eric play a role in the accident that left Dani with life-altering injuries? This question haunts him, leading to a quest for answers that fuels the narrative's intensity. Dani, however, is grappling with her own pain and isn't ready to confront the past, making her relationship with Eric all the more complicated.
As Eric strives to uncover the truth, the story delves into themes of loyalty, integrity, and the intricate dynamics of friendship. The story masterfully navigates the fine line between seeking justice and potentially betraying another friend.
Hidden Truths is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant tale that explores the sacrifices one makes to keep a promise and the transformative power of forgiveness. Readers are sure to be captivated by the intricate characters, their moral dilemmas, and the gripping storytelling that weaves these hidden truths into a compelling narrative.
I loved this book and here is why!!!
Hidden Truths is a captivating and emotionally charged story that explores the complexities of friendship, promises, and the profound impact of secrets and forgiveness.
Told through alternating perspectives, the narrative delves into the close-knit bond between Dani and Eric, two friends who've shared everything since they were kids. Their connection, formed over donuts, comic books, and summer adventures, is put to the test when a life-altering event shakes their world.
The heart of the story revolves around a haunting question: Did Eric play a role in the accident that left Dani with life-altering injuries? This question haunts him, leading to a quest for answers that fuels the narrative's intensity. Dani, however, is grappling with her own pain and isn't ready to confront the past, making her relationship with Eric all the more complicated.
As Eric strives to uncover the truth, the story delves into themes of loyalty, integrity, and the intricate dynamics of friendship. The story masterfully navigates the fine line between seeking justice and potentially betraying another friend.
Hidden Truths is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant tale that explores the sacrifices one makes to keep a promise and the transformative power of forgiveness. Readers are sure to be captivated by the intricate characters, their moral dilemmas, and the gripping storytelling that weaves these hidden truths into a compelling narrative.
July 21, 2023
ARC received from NetGalley.
Hidden Truths is the story of Eric and Dani, soon-to-be sixth graders who have been close friends for the longest time. Eric loves superheroes and comics and is often bullied at school. Dani is athletic and has recently made the boys’ baseball team at school.
Early in the morning during their annual campout with Eric’s family, there is an explosion. Eric stepped out of the camper to take care of business and rushed in to pull Dani out before the camper was engulfed in flames. People say Eric is a hero and saved Dani’s life. He is pretty sure the accident is all of his fault and because of it Dani’s chances of returning to baseball seem impossible.
Their friendship begins to falter when Eric confesses to Dani that the accident is all his fault. The void in their lives is filled with two new friends. For Eric, it’s Rachel, the cute girl he is paired with to work on a project about safety during their Speak Out! club. Dani is befriended by Meadow who just happened to be at the hospital where her sister is recovering from her own accident.
Told in alternating chapters from Eric and Dani’s perspectives, this realistic fiction title handles the complications that come along with middle school friendships, bullying, family dynamics and love interests beautifully.
Hidden Truths is the story of Eric and Dani, soon-to-be sixth graders who have been close friends for the longest time. Eric loves superheroes and comics and is often bullied at school. Dani is athletic and has recently made the boys’ baseball team at school.
Early in the morning during their annual campout with Eric’s family, there is an explosion. Eric stepped out of the camper to take care of business and rushed in to pull Dani out before the camper was engulfed in flames. People say Eric is a hero and saved Dani’s life. He is pretty sure the accident is all of his fault and because of it Dani’s chances of returning to baseball seem impossible.
Their friendship begins to falter when Eric confesses to Dani that the accident is all his fault. The void in their lives is filled with two new friends. For Eric, it’s Rachel, the cute girl he is paired with to work on a project about safety during their Speak Out! club. Dani is befriended by Meadow who just happened to be at the hospital where her sister is recovering from her own accident.
Told in alternating chapters from Eric and Dani’s perspectives, this realistic fiction title handles the complications that come along with middle school friendships, bullying, family dynamics and love interests beautifully.
October 3, 2023
Hidden Truths is an insightful, realistic, and touching middle grade book about forgiveness and evolving friendships. Told from two engaging perspectives, this evenly-paced story never lags and feels relatable enough to keep young readers flipping the pages. Swartz does an impressive job sensitively tackling a serious topic like forgiveness after hurt while keeping the story gentle and accessible.
Full review & content warnings: https://readingmiddlegrade.com/hidden...
Full review & content warnings: https://readingmiddlegrade.com/hidden...
July 19, 2023
I’m not sure how Elly does it, but she is able to create characters that feel so real, so relatable, that you end up having every emotion course through your body as you read her stories.
Dani and Eric are the best of friends despite being very different from each other. Dani is an athlete through and through and is the first girl to make the boys baseball team, a dream come true. Eric is happier in the library reading comic books. They both enjoy their annual Cape Cod camping adventures until an unexpected accident has both kids questioning who they are and if their friendship can endure the stress they feel as they heal physically and mentally.
Elly made me adore the characters in this book from the very first page. Not just the two main characters, but also the secondary characters, especially Waylan, the physical therapist, and Eric’s little sister, Zoe. I was enraged at times when the middle school angst I remember from so many years ago kicked in. The way Dani was clouded by her own pain and was unable to stand up for Eric when Meadow came along destroyed me. I was brought to tears more than once as I understood their confusion and emotional hurt as they navigated the healing process.
Told in alternating perspectives with lessons on bullying, loss and grief, friendship, forgiveness, and healing of the heart, body, mind, and spirit, there is much to love about this book. I’m grateful I got an early copy! Can’t wait to share when it comes out on October 31.
Dani and Eric are the best of friends despite being very different from each other. Dani is an athlete through and through and is the first girl to make the boys baseball team, a dream come true. Eric is happier in the library reading comic books. They both enjoy their annual Cape Cod camping adventures until an unexpected accident has both kids questioning who they are and if their friendship can endure the stress they feel as they heal physically and mentally.
Elly made me adore the characters in this book from the very first page. Not just the two main characters, but also the secondary characters, especially Waylan, the physical therapist, and Eric’s little sister, Zoe. I was enraged at times when the middle school angst I remember from so many years ago kicked in. The way Dani was clouded by her own pain and was unable to stand up for Eric when Meadow came along destroyed me. I was brought to tears more than once as I understood their confusion and emotional hurt as they navigated the healing process.
Told in alternating perspectives with lessons on bullying, loss and grief, friendship, forgiveness, and healing of the heart, body, mind, and spirit, there is much to love about this book. I’m grateful I got an early copy! Can’t wait to share when it comes out on October 31.
October 31, 2023
The middle grade novel Hidden Truths by Elly Swartz is about the forever people in our lives. Loving them. Forgiving them. Fighting for them. It’s also about chasing dreams, finding your superpower, and forgiveness.
Elly Swartz hit a homerun with Hidden Truths. Parents, teachers, and students will become ardent fans of the main character Dani, who truly loves baseball, (it’s not just a phase), and her best friend since second grade, Eric, who loves crossword puzzles and has worn the same swim trunks for two years. (Yes, he’s smart, skinny and gets bullied at school.) The novel is told from alternating points of view, with a signed baseball for Dani’s chapters, and a crossword puzzle for Eric. Kids will love that!
Dani and Eric learn that friends can be jerks, friends lie, friends use you. Both fans of superheroes and shapeshifting, they learn that superpower is not so great among friends. An accident happens and Elly Swartz helps young readers navigate the emotions of guilt, making mistakes, and the consequences of lying or telling the truth. Readers are faced with characters who are brave, reckless, scattered (ADHD), and sideways; but all friends grow and change. Are they who we think they are? Readers will eagerly follow Dani and Eric onto the baseball field, down the school hallways, and out to the Cape to find out how Elly Swartz solves this best friend dilemma.
Readers of all ages are reminded that goodbyes are hard, not everything can be fixed with cookies and donuts, (but they help), and we all need forever people. Insightful. Enlightening. A homerun!
Elly Swartz hit a homerun with Hidden Truths. Parents, teachers, and students will become ardent fans of the main character Dani, who truly loves baseball, (it’s not just a phase), and her best friend since second grade, Eric, who loves crossword puzzles and has worn the same swim trunks for two years. (Yes, he’s smart, skinny and gets bullied at school.) The novel is told from alternating points of view, with a signed baseball for Dani’s chapters, and a crossword puzzle for Eric. Kids will love that!
Dani and Eric learn that friends can be jerks, friends lie, friends use you. Both fans of superheroes and shapeshifting, they learn that superpower is not so great among friends. An accident happens and Elly Swartz helps young readers navigate the emotions of guilt, making mistakes, and the consequences of lying or telling the truth. Readers are faced with characters who are brave, reckless, scattered (ADHD), and sideways; but all friends grow and change. Are they who we think they are? Readers will eagerly follow Dani and Eric onto the baseball field, down the school hallways, and out to the Cape to find out how Elly Swartz solves this best friend dilemma.
Readers of all ages are reminded that goodbyes are hard, not everything can be fixed with cookies and donuts, (but they help), and we all need forever people. Insightful. Enlightening. A homerun!
August 13, 2023
I read this book cover to cover and today I’m STILL thinking about this line: "If she can turn into anyone, then she's true to no one."
This book is surely about friendship and forgiveness, but it’s so deep yet told with perfect middle grade writing. Being in any kind of relationship means finding a way to move on from the tough stuff AND to grow into better people (hopefully together!) - and this lovely book shows that so well.
Another 5-star Elly story!!!
- - - - -
“I stare at (her) and wonder how she can be so thoughtful with me and so obnoxious to (him.) I've always assumed people were either good or bad. I didn't think there were in-betweeners. But (she) is definitely an in-betweener.”
“She has changed. And so have I.”
Rachel picks up Dani's favorite Mystique comic. I watch as she reads it. She takes the last bite of her donut and says,
"Not sure I really like Mystique."
I blink. "Why? She's cool." For some weird reason I feel like I need to defend Mystique.
"Well, she's a shape-shifter, right?"
I nod. "Yeah. That's what makes her so amazing. She can be anyone." Dani always said that about her.
"I guess," she says. "But it also makes her untrustworthy:
I lean forward. "How?"
She puts the comic back onto the stack. "If she can turn into anyone, then she's true to no one." I never thought of it that way.
"I mean, who is she, really?"
This book is surely about friendship and forgiveness, but it’s so deep yet told with perfect middle grade writing. Being in any kind of relationship means finding a way to move on from the tough stuff AND to grow into better people (hopefully together!) - and this lovely book shows that so well.
Another 5-star Elly story!!!
- - - - -
“I stare at (her) and wonder how she can be so thoughtful with me and so obnoxious to (him.) I've always assumed people were either good or bad. I didn't think there were in-betweeners. But (she) is definitely an in-betweener.”
“She has changed. And so have I.”
Rachel picks up Dani's favorite Mystique comic. I watch as she reads it. She takes the last bite of her donut and says,
"Not sure I really like Mystique."
I blink. "Why? She's cool." For some weird reason I feel like I need to defend Mystique.
"Well, she's a shape-shifter, right?"
I nod. "Yeah. That's what makes her so amazing. She can be anyone." Dani always said that about her.
"I guess," she says. "But it also makes her untrustworthy:
I lean forward. "How?"
She puts the comic back onto the stack. "If she can turn into anyone, then she's true to no one." I never thought of it that way.
"I mean, who is she, really?"
September 11, 2023
"Hidden Truths" by Elly Swartz is an emotionally charged exploration of the complexities of friendships, loyalty, and the challenges that arise when truths are buried. The dual narrative provides a compelling depth to Dani and Eric's relationship, giving readers an intimate glimpse into their intertwined lives, both before and after the life-changing incident. Swartz masterfully captures the rawness of guilt, the anguish of betrayal, and the journey towards healing and forgiveness. Through donuts, comic books, and summer memories, the narrative underscores the significance of shared moments in the foundation of friendships. "Hidden Truths" is a touching tale that will resonate with readers of all ages. Great selection for school libraries and classroom.
Thank you Random House-Delacorte Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
Thank you Random House-Delacorte Press and NetGalley for this ARC.
October 9, 2023
So grateful to have the opportunity to read an early copy of this middle grade novel full of friendship, forgiveness, and truth.
Told in alternating points of view, Dani and Eric have been friends forever. Dani is thrilled to make the boys’ baseball team, and Eric loves comic books and debating superheroes. But when tragedy strikes during their yearly Cape Cod camping trip, their friendship is tested by rumors and betrayal.
This book certainly deals with physical healing. But it also addresses mental healing, something our middle grade readers need to see and experience in the stories they devour.
Favorite scene & line, page 194:
“You’ve got this, Dani. Remember, you get to choose. Life is not happening to you….You may not get to choose what sport you play or when you get to play it, but you get to choose who you are. And in the end, that’s what matters most.”
Preorder now! Publishing October 31, 2023.
Told in alternating points of view, Dani and Eric have been friends forever. Dani is thrilled to make the boys’ baseball team, and Eric loves comic books and debating superheroes. But when tragedy strikes during their yearly Cape Cod camping trip, their friendship is tested by rumors and betrayal.
This book certainly deals with physical healing. But it also addresses mental healing, something our middle grade readers need to see and experience in the stories they devour.
Favorite scene & line, page 194:
“You’ve got this, Dani. Remember, you get to choose. Life is not happening to you….You may not get to choose what sport you play or when you get to play it, but you get to choose who you are. And in the end, that’s what matters most.”
Preorder now! Publishing October 31, 2023.
October 12, 2023
I've read a few of Elly Swartz'sbooks now, and she continually pens stories that are both relatable and relevant. This dual-POV contemporary follows two best friends, Eric and Dani, and the summer accident that threatens to tear their friendship apart. Each main character has an engaging voice, and their unique journeys make this book both a compelling and un-put-downable read. While both Dani and Eric go through some decidedly un-funny things, they both keep their wry senses of humor throughout and offer a lot of great one-liners that both kids and adults can enjoy. The book ends in a way that is both satisfying and true to life. Any child should be able to see themselves in this story, which offers a fresh take on the familiar and fills a needed space on library shelves. Highly recommended.
July 3, 2023
Elly Swartz has such a gift for bringing readers to the heart of her stories. At the heart of this story are questions of forgiveness, truth, love, and acceptance.
Dani and Eric have been best friends for forever, but when a terrible accident happens, their friendship is damaged by lies, rumors, and betrayal. Told from both points of view, readers can see into the hearts of both of these hurting middle-schoolers, and will see through some of the influences of other friends.
What I loved: incredible VOICE for both characters; supportive adults; well-developed secondary characters; gender nonconformity (Dani is the only girl on her school's baseball team; Eric loves donuts, superheroes, and his little sister).
Eric is depicted as having ADHD though it is never named or officially diagnosed. I had hoped this might be at least a discussion with an adult, since he is often criticized for his messiness and forgetfulness. I loved that he began to see himself as a leader, but also wanted to see him validated more by the adults in his life.
Overall, I loved this book and look forward to adding it to my library! Thanks to @NetGalley and Delacorte Press for the digital advanced copy!
Dani and Eric have been best friends for forever, but when a terrible accident happens, their friendship is damaged by lies, rumors, and betrayal. Told from both points of view, readers can see into the hearts of both of these hurting middle-schoolers, and will see through some of the influences of other friends.
What I loved: incredible VOICE for both characters; supportive adults; well-developed secondary characters; gender nonconformity (Dani is the only girl on her school's baseball team; Eric loves donuts, superheroes, and his little sister).
Eric is depicted as having ADHD though it is never named or officially diagnosed. I had hoped this might be at least a discussion with an adult, since he is often criticized for his messiness and forgetfulness. I loved that he began to see himself as a leader, but also wanted to see him validated more by the adults in his life.
Overall, I loved this book and look forward to adding it to my library! Thanks to @NetGalley and Delacorte Press for the digital advanced copy!
April 19, 2023
Elly Swartz does it again! Another fabulous MG book that readers of all ages will absolutely love. You will be drawn to the story from page one. The chapters are short and gripping. With alternating perspectives, we are left wanting more. It's a book that's impossible to put down! Readers will love learning about Dani and Eric and the special bond that they have. They're the best of friends and always have each others' backs... until the accident. Eric feels responsible for what happens to Dani and Dani begins to blame him after a new "friend" convinces her that Eric is awful. Will their friendship be over forever, or will they find a way back into each others' lives?
July 9, 2023
Elly Swartz has done it again! She writes such an UHC characters who you feel like you know and are friends with. So many of the battles they face, we see or experience ourselves and we want to root for the characters! In this story these best friends have a lot thrown there way and I appreciate how realistic the story is! Kids and adults will love the multi layered stories that both unite and divide these characters.I cannot wait for my students to read this amazing g book! Thanks Elly for letting me read an arc through Net Galley!
June 22, 2023
Dani and Eric have been best friends since second grade. Now, going into 6th grade, something tragic happens that pushes them away from each other. They each will have to go on their own journey of self discovery to decide what really matters.
This is a story that is perfect for middle grade readers as the “pre-teen angst” the characters experience is something that most kids can relate to. The characters are well written and it’s easy to visualize the scenes panning out. It’s “real” in little ways that matter, such as Eric picking up clothes from the floor and giving them the sniff test but then making sure to wear deodorant and body spray.
This would be a great novel for a teacher to use for class discussions as there are many things that the characters are experiencing, such as loss, bullying, and dealing with guilt.
This was my first novel by this author and I’m looking forward to checking out more of her work.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #RandomHouseChildren’sBooks for an eARC of #HiddenTruths by #EllySwartz - 4 stars
This is a story that is perfect for middle grade readers as the “pre-teen angst” the characters experience is something that most kids can relate to. The characters are well written and it’s easy to visualize the scenes panning out. It’s “real” in little ways that matter, such as Eric picking up clothes from the floor and giving them the sniff test but then making sure to wear deodorant and body spray.
This would be a great novel for a teacher to use for class discussions as there are many things that the characters are experiencing, such as loss, bullying, and dealing with guilt.
This was my first novel by this author and I’m looking forward to checking out more of her work.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #RandomHouseChildren’sBooks for an eARC of #HiddenTruths by #EllySwartz - 4 stars
August 7, 2023
Elly Swartz hit a homerun with this book. Being a teenager is hard, but being a teenager who just got their dream and then had it ripped away from them, well, it's beyond hard. Elly writes about the challenges of middle childhood with friends, families and change in a way that is relatable for all children.
Lifetime friendships take lots of curve balls as you head into middle school and this friendship is no exception. This is a must read!
Lifetime friendships take lots of curve balls as you head into middle school and this friendship is no exception. This is a must read!
October 30, 2023
I love realistic fiction and this book drew me in immediately. It is the tale of two friends whose friendship is greatly tested when she is severely injured in an accident and her best friend Eric thinks he is responsible for the accident. Dani had finally gotten on the all boys baseball team and now due to her injuries she may never be able to play again. This is a story of dealing with challenges, seeking your true self and accepting who you are.
November 20, 2023
A bit young for my 7th graders, but some will like it. I like that Eric and Dani seemed to have a real relationship - their friendship, then the distrust, then the hurt, and even the feeling they were done being friends was so true-to-life. Even if other parts weren’t as realistic, I liked that part of the story the best. I also liked how Eric was able to mature and find his strengths through his ADHD.
April 6, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this through NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Hidden Truths is a story about two middle school kids, Dani and Eric. Dani has just made it onto the all boys baseball team as the first girl ever. Eric is her superhero obsessed, ADHD scatterbrained best friend. An accident at their end of the summer camping trip crushes Dani's dreams and changes everything about their friendship.
I am at a loss for words on this book. It touched on so many difficult topics and weaved them all together into such an amazing story. It goes through the gambit of feelings - anger, sadness, hope, determination - not in a linear progression, but in a realistic cycle where feelings were constantly coming back around. I really liked how Eric's ADHD was portrayed and how he described it in his own words. This book was just very nicely done overall and I feel would make a great classroom read-aloud.
Hidden Truths is a story about two middle school kids, Dani and Eric. Dani has just made it onto the all boys baseball team as the first girl ever. Eric is her superhero obsessed, ADHD scatterbrained best friend. An accident at their end of the summer camping trip crushes Dani's dreams and changes everything about their friendship.
I am at a loss for words on this book. It touched on so many difficult topics and weaved them all together into such an amazing story. It goes through the gambit of feelings - anger, sadness, hope, determination - not in a linear progression, but in a realistic cycle where feelings were constantly coming back around. I really liked how Eric's ADHD was portrayed and how he described it in his own words. This book was just very nicely done overall and I feel would make a great classroom read-aloud.
June 22, 2023
Really enjoyed this coming of age middle grade novel from author Elly Swartz.
Dani and Eric are best friends whose lives change forever with a terrifying accident.
They way they deal with injuries, mental health, siblings, bullies, and school is very real and gratifying to read. I enjoyed seeing them both grow into themselves and be true to their own hearts.
Dani and Eric are best friends whose lives change forever with a terrifying accident.
They way they deal with injuries, mental health, siblings, bullies, and school is very real and gratifying to read. I enjoyed seeing them both grow into themselves and be true to their own hearts.
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