Avalyn suffers from severe asthma and multiple food allergies. After nearly losing her life as a toddler, her parents made the decision to move. Now she lives in a desert town with a low incident of dust storms, but recently that has changed.
Avalyn thinks the increase in dust correlates with the arrival of a new kid named Adam. He is withdrawn and quiet and is already the target for taunts from the bullies. Whenever Avalyn comes in close contact with Adam, she has strange feelings and her asthma kicks in. She has always been able to sense the emotions of people around her, and with Adam that sensation seems to intensify.
Tired of what she calls her "helicopter" parents, Avalyn hasn't been sharing honestly with them or even her closest friends. She knows that Adam has a dangerous secret, but she doesn't know how to convince him she can be trusted. After several close calls with her asthma, she worries that she will never be able to connect with Adam enough to help him.
Author Dusti Bowling writes about health concerns many young readers can relate to in DUST. She also presents the relatable issues of friendship, isolation, and bullying. Readers will immediately connect with Avalyn as the pages turn. Perfect for middle grade collections.
No comments:
Post a Comment