The Texas Panhandle is a rare setting in middle grade books and the perfect location for this coming of age story.

Twelve-year-old Jess had planned on spending the summer like she always does- with her friends at camp and spending time with Dad who instead has drifted off to pursue a musical career. Mom though has a different idea. She will be making the long drive with Jess and her older brother Will to Texas where they will stay with Uncle Frank at the family ranch.

Jess is expecting to be miserable, but the ranch brings out another side to her in more ways than one. She learns to horseback ride and soon discovers the ranch next to them is flourishing with water and vegetation while everywhere else the land is dried up. Jess finds the courage to do something about it with nerdy Will and find out what is going on with the neighbor hording water.

Jess is a great character and although her narration sometimes seems far above her 12 years, it never is a problem in the story she shares. Her emotions come through in each of the 28 chapters as she deals with family and friend separation. There’s even a little magical realism as Jess becomes closer to the animals.

The setting is so vividly described that if you have never visited that part of the country, it will seem like you have once the 192 pages are tucked in your memory. THE STARS ARE ALWAYS THERE is a memorable read for anyone who loves environmentally based stories. The main character will win you over.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jaime has over 30 years of professional experience, and a lifetime of stories to tell—mostly fictionalized. She harnessed her childhood memories in writing her debut novel, The Stars Are Always There. This middle grade story of a girl’s isolation and journey of self-discovery on the arid, high plains of Texas illustrates how one voice can make a difference, even when facing overwhelming odds.

In addition to fiction, Jaime explores the struggles of our lives as we face an uncertain future. Jaime’s insights on what we need to perform and thrive as individuals and as a society come from personal and professional encounters with people in crisis. Courage in the face of adversity builds resilience. This truth sustains us. (Author Website)

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