The only person who consistently brings joy to 13-year-old Rain is her fun-loving, academically and athletically gifted older brother, Xavier. Rain and X, who are Black, have a mostly absent father and a mother who works multiple jobs to support her two children. Rain is often left alone with a heavy sadness she can’t escape. She wishes she had lighter skin, a smaller body, a prettier face. She has an overwhelming sense that bad things will happen. And then something does: While on a college visit, X is severely beaten by a group of white frat boys at a party. Devastated, Rain spirals, falling behind in school and resorting to self-harm to cope. When X is released from the hospital, his PTSD makes him seem like a different person. Help for Rain comes in the form of a teacher who notices that she is struggling. An afterschool support group, individual therapy sessions, and a willingness to communicate her feelings with her family members—who open up about their own struggles—bring hope and healing. In time, with healthier coping mechanisms and a strong support system, Rain pursues new interests and tries to love herself for who she is. Written in verse, this novel authentically explores one girl’s experience of depression, survival, and healing.  (Ages 10-13)

An inspiring debut middle grade novel-in-verse about Rain, who must overcome sadness after her all-star brother is badly beaten up at a frat party. Genesis Begins Again meets Brown Girl Dreaming in this powerful story of perseverance, family, and hope.

"A gorgeous debut: a necessary, cathartic, immersive healing experience.” —Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

“In this gut-wrenching verse novel by debut author Comrie, thirteen-year-old City Middle School student Rain Washington grapples with the aftermath of a violent racist attack. . . . Comrie sensitively tackles myriad topics, including colorism, fiscal scarcity, and structural racism, as well as their effects on mental health, in this impressive volume." —Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“This lovingly crafted novel-in-verse is a much-needed reminder that compassion, both for oneself and others, can help make the world right as rain.” —Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books (starred review)

“A searing exploration of the intricacies of racism, privilege, and self-worth within the confines of the Black community. Rain’s journey is one that includes an acceptance of all the pieces of her identity that make her whole and unique.” —ALA Booklist

Rain is keeping a big secret from everyone around her: She's sad. All the time. Rain struggles with her image and feels inferior to her best friend, Nara. Not even her all-star student-athlete big brother (and personal superhero), Xander, can help Rain with her dark thoughts and low self-esteem.

And when Xander becomes the victim of violence at a predominantly white university, Rain’s life and mind take a turn for the worse. But when her favorite teacher, Miss Walia, invites her to an after-school circle group, Rain finds the courage to help herself and her family heal.

Like the rain, she is both gentle and a force, finding strength to rise again.

“You can't help but fall in love with this book. Heartbreaking, emotional, and a ride well worth taking.” —Marie Arnold, author of The Year I Flew Away and I Rise

“Everyone who reads this will be inspired by Rain's dedication to finding healing.” —Elisabet Velasquez, author of When We Make It

A 2023 Bank Street Books Best Children's Book of the Year for Ages 12–14 in Fiction (Contemporary Issues)!

A 2025 Evergreen Teen Book Award nominee!