MY PALE SUMMER - Debra Phillips

Embark on a cautionary tale of bravery and friendship for readers of all ages, where perceptions are challenged, and secrets unravel. Within this esoteric tale, an eccentric elderly lady, Isabelle Ickleberry, warning others to avoid her grumpy demeanor. However, eight-year-old Evee dismisses the rumors as mere fabrications. Landing in the care of her unkind aunt after her mother's abandonment, Evee yearns for a mentor and a special friend to share wisdom about nature and gardening, even though she has been warned to stay away from the eccentric old woman. Evee and her four-year-old sister, Mina, relentlessly cling to hope, believing in a future reunion with their mother.

The sisters yearn to beautify their spacious backyard by cultivating trees and vibrant flowers, seeking permission from their aunt. Little do they anticipate the extraordinary and mysterious discovery that awaits them. Fate intervenes when Isabelle Ickleberry, driven by a misguided assumption based on Evee's appearance, forms a deep connection with her. Isabelle envisions Evee to be the ideal daughter she never had until she learns of Evee's true bloodline. Bound by a hidden bond, their relationship takes an unexpected turn as Evee grows weary of hurtful remarks targeting people of color. Determined to teach a valuable lesson, Evee sets in motion a series of events that ultimately unveils a dreadful truth.