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Ever since she was a baby, the words people use to describe Elyse have instantly appeared on her arms and legs. At first it was just "cute" and "adorable", but as she's gotten older and kids have gotten meaner, words like "loser" and "pathetic" appear, and those words bubble up and itch. And then there are words like "interesting", which she's not really sure how to feel about.

Now, at age 12, she's starting middle school, and just when her friends who used to accept and protect her are drifting away, she receives an anonymous note saying "I know who you are, and I know what you're dealing with. I want to help". As Elyse works to solve the mystery of who is sending her these notes, she also finds new ways to accept who she is and to become her best self.

Sticks & Stones by Abby Cooper: A Captivating Journey of Friendship, Identity, and Acceptance

In the quaint town of Elmwood, two unlikely individuals, Finley and River, find themselves on a heartwarming and transformative journey in Abby Cooper's captivating novel, Sticks & Stones. As they navigate the complexities of friendship, identity, and acceptance, readers are taken on an emotional rollercoaster that will leave them inspired and uplifted.

Finley, a young girl with an indomitable spirit, struggles to find her place in a world that often misunderstands her. Her passion for rocks and her unique perspective on life set her apart from her peers, making her an easy target for bullies. But when River, a mysterious and enigmatic boy, enters her life, everything changes.

Despite their differences, Finley and River form an unbreakable bond. River, who possesses a deep understanding of nature and a calming presence, helps Finley appreciate the beauty of the world around her. Together, they embark on an adventure that takes them through forests, fields, and along rivers, where they discover hidden treasures and learn valuable lessons about themselves and the power of friendship.

As Finley and River's friendship deepens, they face challenges that test their bond. Bullies continue to target Finley, and River must decide whether he will stand up for her or succumb to the pressure to conform. Through their struggles, both characters grow and learn to embrace their unique qualities, finding strength in their differences.

Sticks & Stones is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant story that celebrates the power of friendship, the beauty of nature, and the importance of self-acceptance. Abby Cooper's heartwarming tale will leave readers feeling uplifted, inspired, and with a renewed appreciation for the simple joys of life.

Key Themes Explored in Sticks & Stones:

• Friendship: The unbreakable bond between Finley and River is at the heart of the story, showcasing the power of friendship to overcome adversity and bring joy to one's life.
• Identity: Finley's journey of self-discovery and acceptance is a central theme, as she learns to embrace her unique qualities and find her place in the world.
• Nature: The natural world plays a significant role in the story, providing a backdrop for Finley and River's adventures and offering them solace and peace.
• Bullying: The novel addresses the issue of bullying in a sensitive and realistic manner, highlighting its harmful effects and the importance of standing up against it.
• Growth: Both Finley and River experience significant growth throughout the story, learning valuable lessons about themselves, the world, and the importance of following their dreams.

Why Readers Will Love Sticks & Stones:

• Compelling Characters: Finley and River are relatable and well-developed characters that readers will root for from the start.
• Heartwarming Story: The novel's heartwarming narrative is sure to leave readers feeling uplifted and inspired.
• Important Themes: Sticks & Stones tackles important themes such as friendship, identity, acceptance, and bullying in a thought-provoking and accessible way.
• Beautiful Writing: Abby Cooper's writing is lyrical and evocative, bringing the story and its characters to life.
• Perfect for All Ages: Sticks & Stones is a captivating read for readers of all ages, offering something for everyone to enjoy.