Product Description
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)
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
From School Library Journal
Gr 3–7—Art truly has the power to save lives. Whether it is through poetry, writing, or step dancing, art channels the power of communication and healing to those who create and share it. In this heartfelt verse debut, Comrie relays the tale of young Black girl Rain, who is experiencing a low point in her life and trying to heal. Rain suffers from debilitating negative self-talk and low self-esteem, which hampers her growth and friendships. When her big brother Xander is brutally physically assaulted after a college visit, the entire family reels in the aftermath. Comrie seamlessly tackles many tough topics, such as self-harm, absentee fathers, mental health, and childhood trauma. This title could be used in social work settings about the importance of honest dialogue and normalizing therapy. Rain Rising is a hopeful text replaying powerful statements such as the need for better access for mental health and working toward "progress not perfect." VERDICT A coming-of-age middle school friendship drama disperses racist violence with justice served. Comrie provides another healthy outlet for youth to normalize exchanges about mental wellness.—Laura Dooley-Taylor
Review
"A gorgeous debut: a necessary, cathartic, immersive healing experience.”
— Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“In this gut-wrenching verse novel by debut author Comrie, 13-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)
“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.” — Booklist
"This captivating novel about honoring your feelings and learning to love yourself brought up so many emotions. I loved how it normalizes attending therapy and working through your traumas. RAIN RISING is a powerful and beautifully written debut!” — Janae Marks, author of From the Desk of Zoe Washington
"Rain Rising is a powerful novel about mental health, self-love, and family. We need more depictions of Black girls who live with depression, who are in therapy, and find ways to shine with the support of family, friends, and beloved community. I ached alongside Rain in her grief, and was lifted up by her hope and courage. An important, beautiful book filled with tenderness and heart." — Mariama J. Lo
