Sucking you into the world of 11-year-old Finley Hart, “Some Kind of Happiness” tells the story of a young girl who loves to make lists and knows when she’s being lied to. Sent to stay with her grandparents for the summer because her parents need time to work things out, Finley is forced out of her comfort zone. She’s dropped off in the middle of nowhere with relatives she has never seen in her life. Finley is introduced to the unfamiliar ways of the Hart family, but soon realizes that remembering names and knowing which fork to use at meal times are the least of her problems. She has a secret, one that she must keep from her grandparents, and the only way to cover it up is by writing.

The fantasy world of Everwood is Finley’s escape from the heavy feelings that press down on her. She fills her notebook with stories of the magical realm and is apprehensive to share any of Everwood’s details with anyone. That is until Finley finally decides to open up to several of her cousins and invites them to join her in saving Everwood from its impending doom.

Author Claire Legrand keeps you on the edge of your seat wondering just what will happen next. The complexity of the characters and the depth of the plot draw you in until you simply can’t put the book down. No matter your age, you will find yourself smiling at the antics of Finley’s cousins and cheering them on when they run into trouble. However, you’ll also find your heartstrings being tugged in all directions and your eyes threatening to well up throughout the entire book.

“Some Kind of Happiness” isn’t a children’s story that shies away from sensitive topics. Not only does Legrand address mental health in young people, she also ties in family struggles, such as divorce and estrangement. It’s filled with raw emotion and relatable situations and not often can you find a book that is as serious as it is fun and heartfelt. Taking the time to read this novel will certainly be time well spent.