Hidden gems like last years August Isle, which made it into the top 5 of my favourite books of the year. Although it’s not my primary genre, it’s without a doubt the one I find the most hidden gems in. I’ve said it before and I will say it again: there is something magical about middle-grade books. 'Seamlessly blending childhood wonder with the slow lessons of maturity, this tale succeeds in celebrating curiosity, thoughtfulness, and collaboration, centering on relatable characters who welcome readers into their world.' - Publishers Weekly Who’s writing to Emma? And just what is her story going to be, now that everything is so different? Award-winning author Ali Standish explores the ways life transforms us, and how we learn to let go of what we must while still holding fast to who we are. Someone writes back to her, just like Gram used to.

But when Emma writes one last story in the journal she shared with Gram, something strange happens. Soon, she’s diagnosed with vitiligo-a condition that makes patches of her skin lose their color-and the magic in her world is suddenly replaced with school bullies and doctor appointments. While her grandmother was alive, Emma’s world was filled with enchantment. But now Gram is gone, and suddenly strange spots are appearing on Emma’s skin.

A rewarding, realistic novel, illuminated by magical elements.' - Booklist (starred review) Wonder meets Some Kind of Happiness in this powerful tween novel from Ali Standish, author of the Carnegie Medal nominee The Ethan I Was Before and August Isle. Creating a large multigenerational cast, Standish knits an absorbing story of loss, identity, and human connections. The diagnosis is vitiligo, a skin condition triggered by stress. ' When Emma discovers the first spot, 'like a tiny bright moon' on her left foot, she's at the funeral of her grandmother, who had been her best friend as well.

August Isle by Ali Standish