PERHAPS A GIFT VOUCHER FOR MUM?: MOTHER'S DAY
Maria Padian has a bachelor's degree from Middlebury College and a master's degree from the University of Virginia. She is a freelance writer, essayist, and author of young adult novels, including Brett McCarthy: Work in Progress, Jersey Tomatoes Are the Best, and Out of Nowhere. Maria lives with her family in Brunswick, Maine. Visit her online at mariapadian.com and find her on Twitter: @mpadian.
Padian shows again and again that a story is always more complicated and more ordinary than it seems. --The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books Padian takes a familiar theme--a girl hiding her background from others--and makes it fresh with her protagonist, Izzy Crawford . . . The characters around her are well-defined and support Izzy and the plot well. Throughout the novel, Izzy's strength, candor, and humanity shine through. --Booklist Padian creates a compelling world with relatable characters and deals with serious issues without feeling heavy-handed. An excellent classroom or book discussion starter. Hand this to readers who are ready to tackle these issues with a lighter touch. --School Library Journal An absolutely enthralling depiction of family and self-discovery. --Kirkus Reviews, starred review Padian creates a world that the reader can easily dive into. Anyone who's ever been a self-conscious teen will see themselves in Izzy. --Book Riot
