Counting by 7s

Willow Chance is a 12-year-old genius who thrives on structure, routines, and her fascination with plants and medical conditions. When her adoptive parents die unexpectedly, Willow’s life spirals into chaos. As she navigates grief and displacement, she slowly builds an unexpected new family from a cast of outsiders, discovering healing and connection in the most unlikely places.

Recommendation:
A deeply moving, character-driven novel that handles themes of grief, resilience, and unconventional families with grace. Ideal for readers who enjoy introspective protagonists and emotional realism.

Ideal for:

• Middle-grade readers ages 10–14
• Fans of Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper
• Readers who enjoy stories about personal growth, identity, and nontraditional families

Similar Reads:

• Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt
• Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine
• The Thing About Jellyfish by Ali Benjamin
• Because of Mr. Terupt by Rob Buyea

Stylistic Features:

• First-person narration with introspective, observant tone
• Rich inner monologue and emotional depth
• Episodic structure with short, titled chapters

Content Warnings:

• Death of adoptive parents (off-page car accident)
• Grief and foster care themes
• Emotional intensity may require adult guidance for sensitive readers