The Clearing
by Cassandra J Kelly
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Pub Date Mar 26 2024 | Archive Date May 24 2024
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Description
"They say you lose your imagination when you get older, and I guess that's what was happening. I was growing up, but I didn't expect it to feel so sudden."
Set in rural Ohio, The Clearing tells the story of twelve-year-old Sadie Watkins, whose world is being uprooted by her mother's disease: a severe form of multiple sclerosis.
As Sadie faces the impending grief of losing her mother, she also feels the fading of her childhood and longs for her imagination to return. She seeks solace in the woods behind her house, where she processes her overwhelming home life through traditional Appalachian herbology, pressing and cataloging flowers and plants like a budding scientist.
When Sadie meets Cali, a barefoot wild child who seems to come from nowhere, the two become instant friends. Cali re-introduces Sadie to the wonders of the forest and gives her the courage she needs to face the future—the one without her mom.
This novel intertwines grief, love, nature, and wonder. It also acts as a time capsule of the healthcare crisis in the early 2000s, and the many American families like Sadie's who had to make great sacrifices when illness struck.
Advance Praise
"Cassandra J Kelly's debut novel, The Clearing, is a book you won't forget. With relatable characters, a heartbreaking set of circumstances, and a whimsical clearing in the woods you wish you could slip right into from the pages, I know this story will remain in my bookworm heart for years to come.
I often come across books where I don't entirely enjoy the main character, whether it be their choices, reliability, or likeability. But with Sadie, I liked her from the very beginning. You're rooting for Sadie, you're on this emotional, long-winding tale with her, and Kelly's way with words truly makes you feel like you're right there with Sadie through it all.
The Clearing is intertwined with hardships, wholesome moments, thought-provoking proses, and a big sprinkling of childlike wonder that makes you want to tap into your childhood imagination once more. This has been a beautiful debut from Cassandra J Kelly, and I look forward to reading her future works."
—Briah K., 5-star Amazon Verified Purchase Review
"This book had me laughing, smiling, and crying. A beautiful story and so well written - I read it all in one sitting! Couldn't put it down. This is a book that I will recommend to many friends."
—Devon M., 5-star Amazon Verified Purchase Review
Available Editions
| ISBN | 9781633377773 |
| PRICE | |
Available on NetGalley
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