The Way to Bea

In this charming and insightful middle grade novel, Beatrix Lee navigates the challenges of seventh grade, feeling friendless and overwhelmed by the impending arrival of a new sibling. She finds solace in writing invisible haikus, which she hides in a secret spot. The story takes a heartwarming turn when someone begins to write back, leading Bea on a journey to uncover the identity of her secret pen pal and, in doing so, discover her own voice and a sense of belonging. Parents will appreciate the sensitive handling of themes like loneliness, self-confidence, and the complexities of friendship and family, reminiscent of Judy Blume's character-driven narratives.

Everything in Bea's world has changed. She's starting seventh grade newly friendless and facing big changes at home, where she is about to go from only child to big sister. Feeling alone and adrift, and like her words don't deserve to be seen, Bea takes solace in writing haiku in invisible ink and hiding them in a secret spot. But then something incredible happens, someone writes back. And Bea begins to connect with new friends, including a classmate obsessed with a nearby labyrinth and determined to get inside. As she decides where her next path will lead, she just might discover that her words, and herself, have found a new way to belong.