It's hard to simplify this book down to tags, it tells such a big story. Friendship, grief, and family dynamics are at play throughout in ways that embody deep truths and uncover craggy pasts.

While the plot took a while to build, I took my time with reading but was eventually here for every messy moment and big emotion. I don't think I knew teens like this existed, but Avery, Jade, and Simone feel whole and real in the complicated way they care about each other and create their own rituals of friendship, following their own grain.

The pangs of family growth and change, and grappling with the past are big and momentous. I'd be lying if I said I hadn't cried while reading. This is a great read for older teens in high school who are questioning themselves and their futures, or for those familiar with loss and complicated history.