Books like Say the word by Jeannine Garsee
After the death of her estranged mother—a woman who left Ohio years ago to live with her lesbian partner in New York City—seventeen‑year‑old Shawna Gallagher’s world is turned upside down. As she navigates the complex emotions that follow, Shawna uncovers surprising revelations about her family, her best friend, and herself, forcing her to confront issues of grief, identity, and belonging.
Set in Ohio, the story explores the challenges of adolescence in a high‑school environment while addressing intimate family dynamics, the experience of being an only child, and the broader themes of sexuality and acceptance. It offers a sensitive portrayal of the process of self‑discovery amid family conflict and personal loss.
First publish date: 2009
Genre: Children's Fiction/Early Readers
Authors: Jeannine Garsee
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