My debut novel! NOW AND AT THE HOUR
I have some personal news to share.
Some of you know that I’ve been working on a middle grade novel for . . . quite awhile (umm, my 18 year old was in middle school when I started writing it!) And by “working on,” I mean, I had an idea for a novel that was inspired by the incredible spirit of a beautiful friend who was battling cancer. And then I had fervent but somewhat unhinged first fragments of that novel when she lost that battle. And then, with time, some clarity around what to lift up, and what to let go. There were multiple (read: a gazillion) drafts, each a little closer to creating a poignant yet optimistic story for kids. There were many teachers and readers and helpers. There were numerous detours on my path to publishing.
But today I’m so happy to share that Warren Publishing is helping me bring NOW AND AT THE HOUR into the world! It is available now. I’m beyond thrilled to be collaborating with such an amazing team.
Here’s a bit about the story:
Twelve-year-old Catholic school kid Albert Davidson finds freedom and adventure skateboarding on the hills and in the parks of San Francisco. He otherwise likes to keep things steady and under tight control – even if he has to tell a few lies to do so. This careful approach to life is turned upside down when his mom is diagnosed with cancer.
Even as Albert struggles to keep things normal by hanging out with his two best friends, his life continues to be full of surprises. While hiking one day near Lands End, he jumps into dangerous waters to rescue a dying shark – an act is that is recorded by onlookers. Suddenly famous online, Albert’s new popularity launches an unusual quest for healing, fueled by his mom’s intensifying battle and his determination to find a cure. A quieter adventure unfolds with the boys and a mysterious stranger, whose unsafe circumstances lead Albert to double down on his secrets and lies. With affliction all around him, will Albert find the remedies he so desperately seeks?
I have come to love Albert Davidson like a third child, and I can’t wait for you to meet him!