HOW TO BE BRAVE

After the death of her mother, Georgia tries to really live while figuring out what that means.

All through high school, Georgia has been in “no-woman’s-land” with her best friend, Liss. After losing her mom, her father buries himself in their failing restaurant, and Georgia feels like she's drowning. But Georgia can't forget her timorous mother's final words to her—to “do everything”—and they prompt her to make a list of things to do to become brave. Not worrying about her overweight appearance, Georgia focuses on truly living her life. Some are easily accomplished, like No. 12—smoke pot—with the help of a new friend, Evelyn. But then there are tougher tasks, like asking out—and kissing—Daniel, Georgia's crush, and learning how to draw like her mom. As Georgia discovers her artistic talents, however, her romance with Daniel hits several snags. And when a mistake wrecks Georgia's friendship with Liss, she's left wondering if the list is actually helping her. Will she have the courage to keep going, or will she give up? Georgia's realistically profane voice aptly captures her personality, carrying the novel; her traverse through grief and experimentation make for a believable and satisfying character arc.

A thoughtful exploration of grief and life.