From National Book Award–winning author Kathryn Erskine

comes a heartfelt, poignant novel that tackles grief, change, and the struggle

to let your voice be heard. Perfect for fans of Lynda Mullaly Hunt, Erin

Entrada Kelly, and Ali Benjamin.

Shy, eleven-year-old Lily made her dad an important promise

before he passed away—that she would “Strive for Five” and speak her mind at

least five times. But speaking up one time, let alone five, is easier said than

done. It’ll be even harder now that Lily must attend public school for the

first time. Fortunately, she meets curling-obsessed Hobart and quiet Dunya at

the beginning of sixth grade. Their kindness gives Lily hope that life without

Dad might just be bearable.

But when Lily and her friends are bullied by Ryan and his

mean clique, she quickly discovers the true meaning of friendship and speaking

out. Despite the anxiety she feels, Lily knows she needs to stand up for

herself and others. And she’ll use the tools her dad gave her to not only keep

her final promise but bring her whole school together.

Following Lily’s journey and the snarky, insightful, and

humorous commentary from Libro, the actual book, who guides readers through

this thoughtful tale, makes Lily’s Promise a strong title for social

emotional learning.