Rain Is Not My Indian Name

Reach for this book when your young teen is processing the heavy weight of grief or struggling to reconnect with their world after a loss. It is specifically designed for the 'quiet' griever, the child who has retreated into themselves and needs a gentle roadmap back to engagement. The story follows fourteen-year-old Rain as she navigates life after her best friend's death, using a camera lens to slowly bridge the gap between her isolation and her vibrant community. It explores the intersections of mixed heritage (Native American and Irish-German) and the healing power of creative expression. While it deals with death, the tone is grounded and hopeful, making it an excellent choice for ages 10 to 14 to explore identity and resilience.