• Age: 9 to 12
• Grade: 4 to 7
• Reading age: 9 to 12

Through twenty-six letters to her friend Nina, twelve-year-old Kasey chronicles the often humorous observations and impressions of her unexpected, month-long stay in a geriatric ward for the treatment of a rare but treatable bone disease ("osteo-something-something-itis"). Kasey tries to make her life less dull by wearing her own nightgowns, surrounding herself with her favorite stuffies and developing an unusual exercise routine. Hospital food, insomnia and the germy communal bath are enduring sources of dread, but some new (and unexpected) friends make her life bearable.

Alison Hughes is an award-winning author of many books for children and young adults, including The Silence Slips In, winner of the R. Ross Annett Award for Children’s Literature and Hit the Ground Running, a nominee for the Governor General's Literary Award. Alison is a university Writing Advisor, volunteers with children and literacy groups and gives frequent workshops and presentations at schools, libraries, festivals and conferences across Canada. She lives in Edmonton with her family.

Alison Hughes' profile page

• Commended, Ontario Library association (OLA) Best Bets - Honourable Mention
• Commended, Bank Street College of Education Children's Book Committee Best Children's Books of the Year
• Commended, CCBC Best Books for Kids & Teens

&quotThis novel is an eye-opening experience for any young person facing serious illness or dealing with lengthy hospital stays. It is both compassionate and very informative at the same time. The beautifully written letters are a marvelous narrative device to put readers in touch with the emotions of the main character.&quot

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"Age-appropriate and emotionally satisfying, Hughes's latest novel pulls readers in with its refreshingly original, affecting storyline. But its real strength lies in the author's memorable scenes and realistic prose, adeptly revealing the tender heart and boundless soul of a girl wise beyond her years."

Quill & Quire

"The well-paced narrative has lovely, intimate moments. Kasey's slow and subtle change into someone who is capable of feeling genuine affection and warmth for her fellow geriatric-ward residents is a journey worth experiencing."

Booklist

"Filled with wry observations and witty insights, this book will make readers feel like Kasey's personal pen pal…Recommended"

School Library Connection

"Kasey's observational humor and snarky attitude will have readers chuckling. Hughes reveals in her acknowledgments that she spent a month in a hospital as a child, and she translates that effortlessly for readers, communicating Kasey's fear and vulnerability as well as that sense that she must put on a brave front for the sake of the adults around her…A surprisingly funny look at a subject readers may think is anything but."

Kirkus Reviews

"Hughes has written a realistic fiction novel that will appeal to many. Kasey's wit and liveliness come to life through her letters to Nina, and Kasey's fears…allow readers to empathize along with her…Hand to young readers who ask for 'sad stories;' this will satisfy their reading tastes and will bring a smile to their faces. Recommended."

School Library Journal