Stay, Girl

Who rescued who? In California's Central Valley in 1953, the love of a neglected dog helps an abused girl find healing, and the caring family she never had.Bet Carter's stepfather is a conman with a history of violence, and he's trying to force thirteen-year-old Bet into that life, too. His controlling ways make Bet's world smaller every day, until the death of her ailing mother gives the girl an opportunity to flee to her Uncle Earl's.Bet only planned a quick stopover in Amberfields, but after her uncle welcomes her into his home, she keeps finding excuses to stay. Bet wants to help Uncle Earl's foster dog, Penny, learn to trust again-but how can the girl mend Penny's spirit when her own is so broken? Joining a hilarious prank war with her new friend Georgie goes a long way to making Bet feel at home in Amberfields. As Bet's emotional armor softens, along with her reasons to leave, she finally allows herself to dream bigger.This heartfelt coming-of-age story will have you cheering for a girl whose determination and optimism help her rediscover the healing power of love.