The hurricane girls

"The girls’ slowly deepening understanding of themselves gives this book its heart. Like their rebuilt city, this friendship cannot reconstitute as an exact replica of what they had before…. Holt takes time developing these characters, allowing readers to see both their individual and collective growth in this appealing and sensitive novel."―The Horn Book, starred review

“Another outstanding novel by one of my favorite authors. Set after Hurricane Katrina, our three girls are all dealing with issues that every girl can relate to—it’s Holt’s superpower to bring a contemporary novel to our young readers.” —Valerie Koehler, owner of Blue Willow Bookshop, Houston, TX

“This is a wonderful story of friendship and strength.” —Judith Lafitte, co-owner of Octavia Books, New Orleans, LA

“A tender and triumphant story about friendship and family, in a proud and resilient city.” Deborah Wiles, author of the National Book Award Finalists Each Little Bird That Sings and Revolution

"Holt’s involving third-person narrative shifts focus, chapter by chapter, from one girl to the next and portrays their family relationships as well as the intricately interwoven thoughts, emotions, and memories that bind them together. While some readers may be drawn to one girl in particular, most will find themselves rooting for all three main characters in this engaging novel."―Booklist

"Interpersonal conflicts threaten the friendship of three New Orleans seventh graders in this slice-of-life novel by Holt .... Nuanced relationship dynamics paired with complex characterizations drive this grounded look at the ways in which the aftermath of tragedy can reverberate long after the event and how community and connection can pave a path toward healing."
 ―Publishers Weekly