Center of Gravity

Tessa has always been anxious, but it’s become worse since her mother died a few months ago. To calm herself down she cuts out photos of missing kids-from milk cartons-and keeps them in a file. It helps her feel like she’s not alone.

Her friends are drifting away. Then worst of all, Tessa’s dad announces suddenly that he’s getting married-and that his fiance is pregnant. His fiance’s parents gift them a house at the beach, and Tessa must move.

As Tessa navigates new friendships with a group of misfit boys and a new stepmother, she realizes she must let go of old friends and old habits if she wants to regain control of her life. Once again, Shaunta Grimes delivers a character and story that will speak to many readers.