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Description
As she tries to escape her poor Chicago neighborhood by winning a scholarship to a prestigious boarding school, shy and studious eighth-grader Patrice discovers that she has more options in life than she previously realized.
Quick Summary
Patrice, a shy eighth-grader from a tough Chicago neighborhood, is set on winning a scholarship to a prestigious boarding school, and what unfolds feels both raw and uplifting. The story stands out because it doesn't gloss over the hardships of growing up poor, yet Patrice's sharp humor and stubborn optimism keep the tone light enough for middle-graders. If your kid loves character-driven stories about kids who hustle against the odds like the way Ghost's narrator runs toward a better future this book will resonate, especially for readers who enjoy a quick, inspiring read. Parents will appreciate that the narrative leans on hard work, hope, and the power of education without being preachy, and there's just enough tension to keep pages turning. At around 38,000 words, it's a solid choice for kids looking for a story that feels like a pep talk wrapped in a real-life adventure, and the title's nod to standing against the wind reminds us that sometimes the gusts are what push us forward.