Hurricane Child

Hurricane Child is a poignant and empowering middle-grade novel set in the U.S. Virgin Islands, following 12-year-old Caroline Murphy. Caroline believes she's unlucky, facing relentless bullying, the haunting presence of a spirit, and the abandonment of her mother. Her world begins to change with the arrival of Kalinda, a new student who becomes her first friend and the object of her burgeoning romantic feelings. The story beautifully explores themes of loneliness, identity, first love, and resilience, all set against the backdrop of a vibrant Caribbean culture and a literal hurricane. It's a powerful narrative about finding oneself and belonging, particularly for young, queer, and Black children, and offers a rich opportunity for discussions about empathy, family, and overcoming adversity.

Being born during a hurricane is unlucky, and 12-year-old Caroline has had her share of bad luck lately. She's hated and bullied by everyone in her small school on St. Thomas of the US Virgin Islands, a spirit only she can see won't stop following her, and -- worst of all -- Caroline's mother left home one day and never came back. But when a new student named Kalinda arrives, Caroline's luck begins to turn around. Kalinda, a solemn girl from Barbados with a special smile for everyone, becomes Caroline's first and only friend -- and the person for whom Caroline has begun to develop a crush. Now, Caroline must find the strength to confront her feelings for Kalinda, brave the spirit stalking her through the islands, and face the reason her mother abandoned her. Together, Caroline and Kalinda must set out in a hurricane to find Caroline's missing mother -- before Caroline loses her forever.