National Network for Equitable Library Service

Sofia lost her mother eight months ago, and her friends were 100% there for her. Now it's a new year and they're ready for Sofia to move on. Problem is, Sofia can't bounce back, can't recharge like a cellphone. She decides to write Dear Kate, an advice columnist for Fifteen Magazine, and is surprised to receive a fast reply. Soon the two are exchanging emails, and Sofia opens up and spills all, including a few worries that are totally embarrassing. Turns out even advice columnists don't have all the answers, and one day Sofia learns a secret that flips her world upside down. SPEED OF LIFE is the heartbreaking, heartwarming story of a girl who thinks her life is over when really it's just beginning. It's a novel about love, family, grief, and growing up. "A wonderful book that takes us from loss to laughter."-Richard Peck, author of The Best Man and Newbery Gold Medalist A Year Down Yonder "You won't want to put it down. But my advice is slow down and savor this delightful book, full of cariNo, funny and heartfelt, and (spoiler alert) not just for teens." -Julia Alvarez, author of In the Time of the Butterflies and Return to Sender