This is an emotional, endearing story that follows a middle school boy’s journey to find himself in the post-9/11, post-COVID pandemic world in which we are all living. Though it is written as a novel-in-verse, the words and story flow so well that the poetry becomes part of the pacing of the story and ties in perfectly with the plot. This story will likely appeal to anyone who has struggled in school, who enjoys baking (or eating!), likes to hike and explore nature, or who is simply looking for an emotionally driven novel to get lost in.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley.

Absolutely loved this novel-in-verse, filled with poems, articles and even some recipes. Finn is in trouble for kicking over Edna’s gravestone and her daughter, Kelly, wants him to climb the 46 peaks with her mom’s dog that her mom wanted to do but never finished. Kelly tells Finn that people climb for reasons because they are “searching for something like courage” or to “remember someone.” Finn also has to finish a poetry project for school and wonders could he write about his dad who died two years ago. As he starts the hikes he has different mentors. One is his dad’s hockey coach who tells him more about his dad. As Finn hikes he can feel his dad in spirit, and it helps him deal with his anger and grief. One day Finn finds letters from Edna to his dad, and it gives him an idea that he hopes gives him closure.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.

To say that I was blown away by this story would be an understatement!

For middle-grade readers who may be struggling with tough emotions, @katemessner's upcoming book "The Trouble With Heroes" will take them on a healing journey. Finn, still reeling from his father's death two years prior, is finishing 7th grade on a low note, and has added accidentally damaging a famous woman's headstone to his list of things that aren't going well. In lieu of paying for a new headstone ($$$$), the dead woman's daughter says Finn can make reparations by climbing all 46 of the Adirondack high peaks in one summer. Initially resentful, Finn slowly comes to find unexpected peace as he works through his complicated emotions for his complicated father: a 9/11 hero with PTSD, pandemic paramedic, someone he loved, someone he was mad at. The story includes poetry, cookie recipes, encouragement, and discovery. And a slobbery but supportive dog. This is a must-have for any library that serves young readers! Pub date: April 29, 2025. Thank you to the @bloomsburychildrens and @netgalley for the ARC.