About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels the weight of the world on their shoulders, struggling to balance responsibilities at home with their own ambitions. 'Patina' is the story of a girl on an elite track team who is also the primary emotional support for her younger sister. They live with their aunt and uncle because their father died and their mother lost her legs to diabetes. This powerful novel explores resilience, complex family love, and the courage it takes to trust others. For ages 10 to 14, it's more than a sports story; it's a profound look at a young person navigating grief and immense responsibility. It is an excellent choice for modeling empathy and starting conversations about how to ask for and accept help when life feels overwhelming.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly and realistically with parental illness (diabetes, amputation) and past parental death. Grief is an ongoing, present theme in Patina's life. The family structure (kinship care/guardianship) is portrayed in a secular, emotionally grounded way. The resolution is hopeful but realistic: Patina grows emotionally and learns to accept help, but the fundamental challenges of her family's situation remain.
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