The Brave Year (Paperback or Softback)

The Brave Year is a heartfelt middle grade story about friendship, courage, and finding your voice when everything feels new.
When ten-year-old Nila moves to Florida and starts fifth grade at Dolphin Bay Elementary, she must navigate a new school, new routines, and the challenge of speaking up in a world that often feels too loud. With the support of her steady teacher, Mrs. Parker, and two very different new friends—energetic Sophie and observant Noah—Nila begins to discover that bravery does not always look bold. Sometimes it is quiet. Sometimes it is trying again.
Throughout the year, the trio faces everyday challenges and small mysteries—from group projects and classroom conflicts to spring break adventures that test their patience and problem-solving skills. But when they attend a summer marine science camp and uncover a real threat to a rare octopus named Obsidian, their friendship and courage are put to the ultimate test.
As they work together to protect what matters, Nila learns that leadership can be calm, teamwork can be powerful, and growing up does not mean changing who you are—it means becoming more fully yourself.
Perfect for readers ages 8–12, The Brave Year celebrates empathy, resilience, neurodiversity, and the many ways children learn to lead with heart.