Not Lucille

Set in 1931, this heartfelt story follows ten-year-old Lucy Contento as she navigates her impulsive nature and desire for friendship with Florence, a deaf girl she meets at a nearby academy. When Lucy devises a plan to learn Florence’s unique way of communication, she faces challenges involving family secrets and financial struggles, all while exploring themes of friendship, belonging, and self-identity. Winner of the 2026 Imadjinn Award for Best Middle Grade Book, it’s a compelling tale of finding one’s voice in a world that often tries to silence her.