Lily's Promise

Written by Kathryn Erskine

A shy girl promised her late father she'd speak up five times, but bullies make it hard.

3.8 Goodreads · 159 ratings

288 pages· 48,479 words· Est. 6.5 hour read· ~700L· AR 4.5 · 7 AR pts

$16.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Eleven-year-old Lily promised her dad, before he died, that she would speak her mind at least five times. Starting public school for the first time in sixth grade makes that even harder. New friends Hobart and Dunya give her hope, but when a mean clique targets them, Lily must face her anxiety and find her voice to stand up for herself and others.

From the publisher

From National Book Award-winning author Kathryn Erskinecomes a heartfelt, poignant novel that tackles grief, change, and the struggleto let your voice be heard. Perfect for fans of Lynda Mullaly Hunt, ErinEntrada Kelly, and Ali Benjamin.Shy, eleven-year-old Lily made her dad an important promisebefore he passed away--that she would "Strive for Five" and speak her mind atleast five times. But speaking up one time, let alone five, is easier said thandone. It'll be even harder now that Lily must attend public school for thefirst time. Fortunately, she meets curling-obsessed Hobart and quiet Dunya atthe beginning of sixth grade. Their kindness gives Lily hope that life withoutDad might just be bearable.But when Lily and her friends are bullied by Ryan and hismean clique, she quickly discovers the true meaning of friendship and speakingout. Despite the anxiety she feels, Lily knows she needs to stand up forherself and others. And she'll use the tools her dad gave her to not only keepher final promise but bring her whole school together.Following Lily's journey and the snarky, insightful, andhumorous commentary from Libro, the actual book, who guides readers throughthis thoughtful tale, makes Lily's Promise a strong title for socialemotional learning.

At a glance