7th, 8th, High School, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th ; Hard Cover, Fiction, Verse Novel, LGBTQIA+, Realistic ; Extra Purchase

Salt the Water

Cerulean, erroneously called Sara by the English teacher Cerulean hates, is struggling with their place in the confines of high school. While they know they are smart and have strong friendships, including a doting partner, Cerulean doesn’t feel as successful because so much of what is success in young adulthood involves how well one does in school. The story told in verse jumps between present and past experiences as well as between the voices of those in Cerulean’s sphere of influence. After an explosion that nearly kills their father, Cerulean must escape, even if it means leaving behind everyone who loves and has been influenced by their spirit. Cerulean is a character you cheer for, and they will find their happiness just around the next page. When Curulean purposefully disappears, some readers could praise the character for finally putting themself first, walking away from a situation they had little control over to forge a new path. Other readers will be frustrated that they left behind so many people who love them. But just like the sourdough starter found in the very back of a forgotten refrigerator of moldy items, Cerulean is still alive, out there somewhere, for her younger sister to find.