Rain Rising (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9780063159730)

An inspiring debut middle grade novel-in-verse about Rain, who must overcome sadness after her all-star brother is badly beaten up at a frat party. Genesis Begins Again meets Brown Girl Dreaming in this powerful story of perseverance, family, and hope.

"A gorgeous debut: a necessary, cathartic, immersive healing experience." --Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"In this gut-wrenching verse novel by debut author Comrie, thirteen-year-old City Middle School student Rain Washington grapples with the aftermath of a violent racist attack. . . . Comrie sensitively tackles myriad topics, including colorism, fiscal scarcity, and structural racism, as well as their effects on mental health, in this impressive volume." --Publishers Weekly (starred review)

"This lovingly crafted novel-in-verse is a much-needed reminder that compassion, both for oneself and others, can help make the world right as rain." --Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

"A searing exploration of the intricacies of racism, privilege, and self-worth within the confines of the Black community. Rain's journey is one that includes an acceptance of all the pieces of her identity that make her whole and unique." --ALA Booklist

Rain is keeping a big secret from everyone around her: She's sad. All the time. Rain struggles with her image and feels inferior to her best friend, Nara. Not even her all-star student-athlete big brother (and personal superhero), Xander, can help Rain with her dark thoughts and low self-esteem.

And when Xander becomes the victim of violence at a predominantly white university, Rain's life and mind take a turn for the worse. But when her favorite teacher, Miss Walia, invites her to an after-school circle group, Rain finds the courage to help herself and her family heal.

Like the rain, she is both gentle and a force, finding strength to rise again.

"You can't help but fall in love with this book. Heartbreaking, emotional, and a ride well worth taking." --Marie Arnold, author of The Year I Flew Away and I Rise

"Everyone who reads this will be inspired by Rain's dedication to finding healing." --Elisabet Velasquez, author of When We Make It

A 2023 Bank Street Books Best Children's Book of the Year for Ages 12-14 in Fiction (Contemporary Issues)!

A 2025 Evergreen Teen Book Award nominee!

Author: Courtne Comrie
ISBN-10: 0063159732
ISBN-13: 9780063159730
Publisher: HarperCollins
Language: English
Published: 09/27/2022
Pages: 336
Format: Hardcover
Weight: 0.92lbs
Size: 8.30h x 5.60w x 1.30d

Accelerated Reader:
Reading Level: 3.6
Point Value: 5
Interest Level: Middle Grade Plus
Quiz #/Name: 521581 / Rain Rising


Review Citation(s):
Kirkus Reviews 08/01/2022
Publishers Weekly 08/15/2022
Bulletin of Ctr for Child Bks 10/01/2022 - Book Of Special Distinction
Booklist 09/15/2022 pg. 54
School Library Journal 01/01/2023 pg. 68
Hornbook Guide to Children 01/01/2023 - Superior,Well Above Average