MICAH

A grieving teen begins to question everything she believes.

The Flyy Girls return with Micah Dupree, who is known to be a rule-following “good girl” who tries to live up to her parents’ high standards and follow the word of God. Until last summer, that was fine by her—but as the anniversary of the day she lost her brother approaches, Micah has started to wonder if living up to everyone else’s expectations outweighs the personal toll it takes. With the help of her therapist, Micah tries to manage her anxiety and unpack her feelings about religion, grief, and losing her virginity to the serious boyfriend she’s been secretly dating. Micah begins to find solace in her brother’s artwork when she notices the messages hidden within it and learns he may not have been as “perfect” as she thought. Micah’s realizations culminate in a beautiful senior project, giving readers a satisfying end with an expectation of more to come. Woodfolk’s ability to create compelling characters shines in this follow-up to Lux: The New Girl (2020). In straightforward language, the author normalizes having anxiety and seeing a therapist as a young Black girl navigating the unexpected death of a beloved brother. This third-person narrative moves quickly without feeling disjointed, making it appealing to reluctant readers. Micah and other characters are Black.

A thoughtful take on grief and growth.