Vendor
	Mohrbooks Literary Agency Marie Arendt
Categories
Children’s, Teenage & Educational

HAPPY & SAD & EVERYTHING TRUE

Alex Thayer

With charm and sincerity reminiscent of Judy Blume and Rebecca Stead, this debut middle grade novel is a heartfelt, hopeful story about a girl finding herself through secretly giving out advice to classmates.

Back when Dee and Juniper were still friends, Dee never hid in the bathroom. Now, at the beginning of sixth grade, Dee finds herself there often. The dripping faucet is annoying, and there are other places she'd rather belike at home and in her room with her cat, Norman. But at least Dee is safe from overenthusiastic teachers and having to see Juniper walking through the halls with her new friends. Dee would rather be alone than witness that. But it turns out Dee isn't the only one hiding from something. There are kids all over the school worrying in secret and needing someone to talk to. After Dee helps a second grader with spelling advice, more students begin coming to Dee with their problems. It turns out she's a good listener, and she likes helping people. And when she starts receiving mysterious notes, it seems someone out there wants to be her friendif only they would reveal themselves. Alex Thayer is a former film and television actress and elementary school teacher. She lives in New England with her two sons. Happy & Sad & Everything True is her debut novel.

Available products
Book Published 2024-11-12 by Aladdin

Comments

Debut author Thayer skillfully and authentically captures the often-painful social transitions of middle school. In a satisfying growth arc, quiet, kind Dee comes out of her shell, realizing she's worth more than the judgments of others made her believe... A compassionate window into the awkward and isolating stages of growing up.

Alex Thayer's delightful debut could not be more perfectly named. I experienced all the feels watching Dee navigate mean-girl cliques, lose her best friend, handle her eccentric single mother (who is maybe dating her PE teacher) all the while staying open to new possibilities. A charming, entertaining, and true book that gently illustrates how so many of life's problems can be improved by a large dollop of generosity. I would follow Dee's advice any time.

Happy & Sad & Everything True has a sincere earnestness that brings you right back to the halls of middle school. Kids will absolutely love this sweet-yet-strong story.