The Hurricane Girls

A coming-of-age middle-grade novel by National Book Award winner Kimberly Willis Holt, this story follows three best friends born after Hurricane Katrina who face personal storms of their own twelve years later.

Greer, Joya Mia, and Kiki are seventh graders and inseparable friends. After an accident leaves Greer's younger sister paralyzed, Greer is consumed by guilt. Hoping to help her heal, Kiki and Joya Mia plan for the three of them to compete in a triathlon - with each girl taking a part, if they can convince Greer to run again.

Set on the Westbank of New Orleans, the novel explores friendship, healing, and growing up as the girls face challenges like family trauma, body image, and balancing dreams with responsibility, showing how forgiveness and support can help overcome hardship.