This was a difficult book to read in that it handles homophobia (and child abuse) in a rural NC town. Cat’s reflections on these moments are spot-on.” – School Library Journal “Myracle captures well the regret that many feel for things in their past about which they are ashamed. “Dramatic in both content and presentation.” – Los Angeles Times “The page-turning mystery and Cat’s inspiring trajectory of self-realization will draw readers in and give them plenty to ponder.” – The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books “Cat eventually uncovers the truth in a cliffhanging climax in which she confronts fear, discovers that love is stronger than hate and truly ‘shines.’ Raw, realistic and compelling.” – Kirkus Reviews Smart, fearless, and compassionate, this is an unforgettable work from a beloved author. Richly atmospheric, this daring mystery mines the secrets of a tightly knit Southern community and examines the strength of will it takes to go against everyone you know in the name of justice.Īgainst a backdrop of poverty, clannishness, drugs, and intolerance, Myracle has crafted a harrowing coming-of-age tale couched in a deeply intelligent mystery. When her best guy friend falls victim to a vicious hate crime, sixteen-year-old Cat sets out to discover who in her small town did it.

Cat's reflections on these moments are spot-on.Amazon,, Better World Books, Book Depository 'Myracle captures well the regret that many feel for things in their past about which they are ashamed. 'Dramatic in both content and presentation.' – The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books 'The page-turning mystery and Cat's inspiring trajectory of self-realization will draw readers in and give them plenty to ponder.'

'Cat eventually uncovers the truth in a cliffhanging climax in which she confronts fear, discovers that love is stronger than hate and truly ‘shines.' Raw, realistic and compelling.'

Shine by lauren myracle