When You Know What I Know

Sonja K. Solter's debut novel, 'When You Know What I Know,' is a deeply sensitive and ultimately hopeful story told in verse, addressing the difficult topic of child abuse and its aftermath. The book follows Tori, a young girl who bravely discloses abuse by her uncle, only to face initial disbelief from her mother and dismissal from her grandmother. The narrative explores Tori's complex emotional journey through trauma, anger, shame, and sadness, as she grapples with what happened and who to trust. It highlights the importance of finding supportive allies, including her little sister and best friend, and the long, courageous path to healing and reclaiming one's voice. While the publisher lists an age range of 4-11, the mature themes of abuse and trauma are best suited for the older end of this spectrum, likely 8-11, or with careful parental guidance for younger, emotionally mature readers.

A sensitive, harrowing, and ultimately hopeful novel in verse about one girl's journey in the aftermath of abuse. One day after school, on the couch in the basement, Tori's uncle did something bad. Afterward, Tori tells her mom. Even though telling was a brave thing to do, her mom still doesn't believe her at first. Her grandma still takes his side. And Tori doesn't want anyone else -- even her best friend -- to know what happened. Now Tori finds herself battling mixed emotions -- anger, shame, and sadness -- as she deals with the trauma. But with the help of her mom, her little sister, her best friend, and others, can Tori find a way to have the last word? From debut author Sonja K. Solter comes a heartbreaking yet powerful novel that will strike a chord with readers of Jacqueline Woodson and Tony Abbott.