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Winnie Nash is Not Your Sunshine
In this powerful new novel by award-winning author Nicole Melleby, 12-year-old Winnie Nash is forced to live with her grandma for the summer and finds herself torn between her family’s secrets and the joy of celebrating Pride.
Winnifred “Winnie” Nash is not a senior citizen, despite what anyone thinks of her name. And she is definitely not excited to live with her grandma in New Jersey for the summer. Not only are they basically strangers, but Winnie—who’s always known she’s gay—has been pushed into the metaphorical closet by her parents, who worry what Grandma will think. So Winnie keeps quiet about the cute girls she befriends; plays card games with seniors, which she does not enjoy; and dreams of the day she can go to the Pride Parade in New York City—a day that can’t happen when she’s hiding the truth from Grandma.
Meanwhile, her mom’s latest pregnancy is approaching its due date, and Winnie is worried it might end like the ones before, with Winnie still an only child. As she tries so hard to be an agreeable, selfless daughter, getting to NYC for Pride is feeling more and more like her only escape from a family who needs her to always smile. Winnie Nash is not your sunshine—and maybe it’s time to show the world who she really is.
Winnifred “Winnie” Nash is not a senior citizen, despite what anyone thinks of her name. And she is definitely not excited to live with her grandma in New Jersey for the summer. Not only are they basically strangers, but Winnie—who’s always known she’s gay—has been pushed into the metaphorical closet by her parents, who worry what Grandma will think. So Winnie keeps quiet about the cute girls she befriends; plays card games with seniors, which she does not enjoy; and dreams of the day she can go to the Pride Parade in New York City—a day that can’t happen when she’s hiding the truth from Grandma.
Meanwhile, her mom’s latest pregnancy is approaching its due date, and Winnie is worried it might end like the ones before, with Winnie still an only child. As she tries so hard to be an agreeable, selfless daughter, getting to NYC for Pride is feeling more and more like her only escape from a family who needs her to always smile. Winnie Nash is not your sunshine—and maybe it’s time to show the world who she really is.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published April 2, 2024
About the author
Nicole Melleby
13 books243 followersNicole Melleby, a Jersey native, is the author of highly praised middle-grade books, including the Lambda Literary finalist Hurricane Season and ALA Notable Children's book How to Become a Planet. She currently teaches at the Fairleigh Dickinson MFA Creative Writing program and lives with her wife and their cats, whose needs for attention oddly align with Nicole’s writing schedule.
Feel free to follow her on Twitter @LadyMelleby
Feel free to follow her on Twitter @LadyMelleby
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 28, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Trigger Warnings: The storyline refers to multiple miscarriages of the main character's mother
Thanks to NetGalley and Algonquin Young Readers for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own
Book Description Tagline: In this powerful novel by an award-winning author, 12-year-old Winnie Nash is forced to live with her grandma for the summer and finds herself torn between her family’s secrets and the joy of celebrating Pride.
Winnie Nash. I want to hold you in my arms, you dear sweet child. It's okay not to be full of sunshine all the time. You are allowed all of your emotions.
More than anything, this middle-grade novel touches upon being our authentic selves and allowing space for our emotions. That's what made it a winner for me.
Loved Pippa and Lucia, summer friends who embrace Winnie for who she is. I have a secret hope that in their fictional world, they will always remain steadfast like that.
Did I have a problem with her parents asking Winnie to hide her authentic self? Absolutely. I did love that the entire family was looking into therapy at the end of the story. Positive mental health representation is a winner for me as a reader.
As an educator, I would find it very interesting to explore this title with a group of students.
Expected Publication o2/04/24
Goodreads Review 26/04/24
WinnieNashIsNotYourSunshine #NetGalley
Trigger Warnings: The storyline refers to multiple miscarriages of the main character's mother
Thanks to NetGalley and Algonquin Young Readers for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own
Book Description Tagline: In this powerful novel by an award-winning author, 12-year-old Winnie Nash is forced to live with her grandma for the summer and finds herself torn between her family’s secrets and the joy of celebrating Pride.
Winnie Nash. I want to hold you in my arms, you dear sweet child. It's okay not to be full of sunshine all the time. You are allowed all of your emotions.
More than anything, this middle-grade novel touches upon being our authentic selves and allowing space for our emotions. That's what made it a winner for me.
Loved Pippa and Lucia, summer friends who embrace Winnie for who she is. I have a secret hope that in their fictional world, they will always remain steadfast like that.
Did I have a problem with her parents asking Winnie to hide her authentic self? Absolutely. I did love that the entire family was looking into therapy at the end of the story. Positive mental health representation is a winner for me as a reader.
As an educator, I would find it very interesting to explore this title with a group of students.
Expected Publication o2/04/24
Goodreads Review 26/04/24
WinnieNashIsNotYourSunshine #NetGalley
April 23, 2024
Wish some things had been expanded upon more but this was still a beautiful book :).
April 12, 2024
I want to wrap queer contemporary middle grade books up in a blanket and hold them close forever. They are one of my absolute favorite genres and I knew Nicole Melleby would deliver and deliver she did.
I think this book tackles how adults sometimes, a lot of the time honestly, underestimate how many emotions the kids are feeling and how capable they are of dealing with their own emotions. We underestimate kids and their capacity for challenges or hard topics when in reality they are going through things no matter what. No matter how hard we try to shield them from our own pain, they know and hiding it only makes it harder.
Winnie's mom has pretty severe depression and it is exacerbated during pregnancy due to the fact that she's had miscarriages in the past. So when her mom is pregnant again, her parents decide that it'd be best for Winnie to spend the summer with her grandma instead of being around her mom and her depression.
The only problem with that is that Winnie's grandma doesn't know that Winnie is a lesbian and so she's been well intentionally put back in the closet. She's expected to not talk about anything going on at home and to just have a fun summer. Except that's not really possible when Winnie is aware of what's going on at home and worried. She wants to go to pride in New York City not spend her days playing cards and reading books with old people.
As the summer continues on, when he begrudgingly starts enjoying the books for book club and starts making friends with some cute girls and eventually learns how to play the card game with her grandma, but her mom is constantly on her mind. She tries to save all of her smiles and all of her laughs for her mom because Winnie knows she needs them more. As her friendships (and maybe a crush) develop, attending Pride becomes her main goal, even though it isn't likely.
This book will require some tissues and it's great for both kids and adults. I think as adults sometimes we need that wake up call that kids are always listening and are extremely capable of knowing both their own emotions and of gauging their surroundings. Shielding children from the hard things only exacerbates the difficulty.
This isn't my favorite Nicole Melleby book But I still enjoyed it a lot. It is a difficult one to get through so content warnings for forced closeting, miscarriages, and depression.
Thanks so much to Algonquin YR for the finished copy!
I think this book tackles how adults sometimes, a lot of the time honestly, underestimate how many emotions the kids are feeling and how capable they are of dealing with their own emotions. We underestimate kids and their capacity for challenges or hard topics when in reality they are going through things no matter what. No matter how hard we try to shield them from our own pain, they know and hiding it only makes it harder.
Winnie's mom has pretty severe depression and it is exacerbated during pregnancy due to the fact that she's had miscarriages in the past. So when her mom is pregnant again, her parents decide that it'd be best for Winnie to spend the summer with her grandma instead of being around her mom and her depression.
The only problem with that is that Winnie's grandma doesn't know that Winnie is a lesbian and so she's been well intentionally put back in the closet. She's expected to not talk about anything going on at home and to just have a fun summer. Except that's not really possible when Winnie is aware of what's going on at home and worried. She wants to go to pride in New York City not spend her days playing cards and reading books with old people.
As the summer continues on, when he begrudgingly starts enjoying the books for book club and starts making friends with some cute girls and eventually learns how to play the card game with her grandma, but her mom is constantly on her mind. She tries to save all of her smiles and all of her laughs for her mom because Winnie knows she needs them more. As her friendships (and maybe a crush) develop, attending Pride becomes her main goal, even though it isn't likely.
This book will require some tissues and it's great for both kids and adults. I think as adults sometimes we need that wake up call that kids are always listening and are extremely capable of knowing both their own emotions and of gauging their surroundings. Shielding children from the hard things only exacerbates the difficulty.
This isn't my favorite Nicole Melleby book But I still enjoyed it a lot. It is a difficult one to get through so content warnings for forced closeting, miscarriages, and depression.
Thanks so much to Algonquin YR for the finished copy!
August 23, 2023
This hit too hard
April 7, 2024
I swear that every book that Melleby writes just pulls the heart strings the whole time! So good.
February 20, 2024
one of my favorite booksof 2024 so far!! it had me crying, laughing, and a lot more crying. please read this 💗💗💗
April 12, 2024
A great queer middle grade book about a young closeted lesbian who is sent to stay with her grandma for the summer and told to keep her identity a secret. I loved how this story focused on Winnie's growth, her yearning to be who she is unapologetically and the way her relationship with her grandmother evolves over the summer!! Highly recommended and great on audio!!
April 17, 2024
Content warnings: parent who has had several miscarriages (central plot point), neglectful parents, forcing child back into the closet, grief, parent with depression.
Rep: Winnie (MC) is cis, white, and lesbian. Side POC characters, side lesbian characters.
I want to wrap Winnie up in a massive hug.
This book made me cry because of course it did.
Winnie has been foisted off on her grandma for the summer because her mum is pregnant again and can't deal with the stress of having her only daughter around (in case she miscarries again, so valid feeling, but still left my heart hurting for Winnie). And she's told she can't tell anyone in her grandma's town that she's lesbian, effectively shoving her back into the closet.
Winnie, is, understandably, angry, because her parents won't talk to her about anything. They've just decided that this is what is best, and that is that.
Winnie has the biggest heart - she thinks if she can save up her smiles for her mum, then her mum will never be sad again. Because when she's sad, she forgets that she has a whole other child to look after.
I know that Winnie's parents are just humans, they're doing their best, but heck I wanted to jump into the book and tell them to look after the daughter they had.
The fact that Winnie had previously ran away and her parents didn't even notice?? Makes my heart hurt.
I did love the friendships that Winnie developed with Pippa and Lucia - they were such good characters! I definitely need more of them in my life.
Anyway, this review is rambly and all over the place.
The book was fantastic.
Rep: Winnie (MC) is cis, white, and lesbian. Side POC characters, side lesbian characters.
I want to wrap Winnie up in a massive hug.
This book made me cry because of course it did.
Winnie has been foisted off on her grandma for the summer because her mum is pregnant again and can't deal with the stress of having her only daughter around (in case she miscarries again, so valid feeling, but still left my heart hurting for Winnie). And she's told she can't tell anyone in her grandma's town that she's lesbian, effectively shoving her back into the closet.
Winnie, is, understandably, angry, because her parents won't talk to her about anything. They've just decided that this is what is best, and that is that.
Winnie has the biggest heart - she thinks if she can save up her smiles for her mum, then her mum will never be sad again. Because when she's sad, she forgets that she has a whole other child to look after.
I know that Winnie's parents are just humans, they're doing their best, but heck I wanted to jump into the book and tell them to look after the daughter they had.
The fact that Winnie had previously ran away and her parents didn't even notice?? Makes my heart hurt.
I did love the friendships that Winnie developed with Pippa and Lucia - they were such good characters! I definitely need more of them in my life.
Anyway, this review is rambly and all over the place.
The book was fantastic.
April 13, 2024
The reason MG books should be written, read and hyped is found within these pages.
☀️
Winnie is angry. Her parents sent her to live with her grumpy grandmother for the summer who doesn’t want a preteen around. That’s fine with Winnie because she doesn’t want to be there either. She wants to be back home with her chatty dad and pregnant mom whose smile has dimmed a lot over the years. Before she left her parents told her not to reveal that she likes girls to her grandmother so now Winnie feels like she’s not truly herself. When Winnie meets two local girls they become fast friends, even though it wasn’t what Winnie was looking for. But as the summer gets closer to the Pride festival in NYC that Winnie really wanted to go to, she finds herself thinking about that and all the things that could go wrong with her mother’s pregnancy. When it all comes to a head, what will Winnie do?
🌈
I truly believe @nicolemelleby can do no wrong. For those who don’t think middle grade books matter or can deal with tough topics, hand them this #novel immediately. Everything from dealing with anger, being yourself, found family, depression and miscarriages, along with a wide range of issues about family and friends can all be found here written perfectly for this age group. Give it a read—it’s perfect for summer or any time!
CW: miscarriage, blood clotting, hospitalization, coming out theme, bullying, depression
4.5 ⭐️
☀️
Winnie is angry. Her parents sent her to live with her grumpy grandmother for the summer who doesn’t want a preteen around. That’s fine with Winnie because she doesn’t want to be there either. She wants to be back home with her chatty dad and pregnant mom whose smile has dimmed a lot over the years. Before she left her parents told her not to reveal that she likes girls to her grandmother so now Winnie feels like she’s not truly herself. When Winnie meets two local girls they become fast friends, even though it wasn’t what Winnie was looking for. But as the summer gets closer to the Pride festival in NYC that Winnie really wanted to go to, she finds herself thinking about that and all the things that could go wrong with her mother’s pregnancy. When it all comes to a head, what will Winnie do?
🌈
I truly believe @nicolemelleby can do no wrong. For those who don’t think middle grade books matter or can deal with tough topics, hand them this #novel immediately. Everything from dealing with anger, being yourself, found family, depression and miscarriages, along with a wide range of issues about family and friends can all be found here written perfectly for this age group. Give it a read—it’s perfect for summer or any time!
CW: miscarriage, blood clotting, hospitalization, coming out theme, bullying, depression
4.5 ⭐️
March 26, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley, author Nicole Melleby, and Algonquin Young Readers for providing me with a free ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
I am such a sucker for queer middle grade reads!!! This one was definitely a lot heavier than others that I have read, but I think that's a good thing. Melleby has such good anxiety representation in this book, especially for pre-teens who are having really big feelings. There's a lot going on in Winnie's life, between family changes and her personal identity (though I loved that she was proudly and confidently queer the entire book!!), and it's definitely reflected through the book. I think it's great that kids, especially queer kids, can have this book for representation that everything is ~not~ always rainbows yet that is still okay. I loved seeing Winnie's relationship with her grandmother grow, as well as her friendship with Pippa and Lucia. If anything, I would have liked for there to be more of the girls' friendships present in the book. I also felt as though it wrapped up a bit too quickly for just how heavy the book was. Overall though, I really enjoyed Melleby's writing, and I definitely recommend for a diverse MG read!!
I am such a sucker for queer middle grade reads!!! This one was definitely a lot heavier than others that I have read, but I think that's a good thing. Melleby has such good anxiety representation in this book, especially for pre-teens who are having really big feelings. There's a lot going on in Winnie's life, between family changes and her personal identity (though I loved that she was proudly and confidently queer the entire book!!), and it's definitely reflected through the book. I think it's great that kids, especially queer kids, can have this book for representation that everything is ~not~ always rainbows yet that is still okay. I loved seeing Winnie's relationship with her grandmother grow, as well as her friendship with Pippa and Lucia. If anything, I would have liked for there to be more of the girls' friendships present in the book. I also felt as though it wrapped up a bit too quickly for just how heavy the book was. Overall though, I really enjoyed Melleby's writing, and I definitely recommend for a diverse MG read!!
March 18, 2024
This book! This author!!! I’m so excited to check out Nicole’s backlist after reading Winnie’s story.
Winnie is staying with her grandma for the summer at her senior city community in New Jersey… where she finds her self in bookclubs and even giving Canasta a try with the seniors! But Winnie has secrets that are starting to take a toll on Winnie… especially when she meets new friends and is getting more comfortable with her grandmother.
This book dives into great discussions… miscarriage within a family, depression and the importance of of queer community. I found this one to be a breath of fresh air in the MG genre. A great pick for summer reading!
Thank you Algonquin Young Readers
Releases 4/2
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
Winnie is staying with her grandma for the summer at her senior city community in New Jersey… where she finds her self in bookclubs and even giving Canasta a try with the seniors! But Winnie has secrets that are starting to take a toll on Winnie… especially when she meets new friends and is getting more comfortable with her grandmother.
This book dives into great discussions… miscarriage within a family, depression and the importance of of queer community. I found this one to be a breath of fresh air in the MG genre. A great pick for summer reading!
Thank you Algonquin Young Readers
Releases 4/2
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
April 27, 2024
Winnie Nash is not YOUR Sunshine
I enjoyed the book but didn't get gaga over it. It is a coming-of-age book for a tween who is part of the LGBT community and trying to deal with coming out (at 12/13) and family crisis issues within her family.
The message was good, talk, talk, talk... but Winnie wouldn't and couldn't and seemingly was told she shouldn't. The one thing I didn't like was the Mom's friend who took Winnie to Pride without the permission of her parents. If Mom was best friends with a member of the LGBT community, she should have been more aware... this relationship did not ring true with me.
3 stars
Happy Reading!
I enjoyed the book but didn't get gaga over it. It is a coming-of-age book for a tween who is part of the LGBT community and trying to deal with coming out (at 12/13) and family crisis issues within her family.
The message was good, talk, talk, talk... but Winnie wouldn't and couldn't and seemingly was told she shouldn't. The one thing I didn't like was the Mom's friend who took Winnie to Pride without the permission of her parents. If Mom was best friends with a member of the LGBT community, she should have been more aware... this relationship did not ring true with me.
3 stars
Happy Reading!
August 13, 2023
Coming of age for a 12 year-old who has known she was gay since toddlerhood. The story is easy enough to read and the author does a good job of building the main character and her friends. However, the parents story-line is thin and under developed. The reader has to fill in some gaps of the relationships between mother-daughter and mother-grandmother.
April 8, 2024
Nicole Melleby is an auto-buy author for me. The quiet strength and depth of emotion she brings to each MG book floors me.
This is a book that I hope gets into the hands of all young queer kids who are struggling with their identity, coming/being out, and opening up to people.
An added story line that hit hard was the grief/fear/confusion/hope around miscarriage. As someone who’s had a baby after miscarriage, I know that particular concoction of heavy emotions as a parent. But seeing that journey through 12-year-old Winnie’s eyes of her mother trying to have a baby after miscarriage is heart wrenching, but handled really accurately I think.
This is a book that I hope gets into the hands of all young queer kids who are struggling with their identity, coming/being out, and opening up to people.
An added story line that hit hard was the grief/fear/confusion/hope around miscarriage. As someone who’s had a baby after miscarriage, I know that particular concoction of heavy emotions as a parent. But seeing that journey through 12-year-old Winnie’s eyes of her mother trying to have a baby after miscarriage is heart wrenching, but handled really accurately I think.
February 27, 2024
~~Thank you to NetGalley and Algonquin Young Readers for the ARC!~~
3.5/5 stars rounded up.
Ugghh, this book gave me a lot of feels, but there are a couple things personally keeping me back from loving it more.
Firstly, I adore Winnie and her grandma's relationship. Their progression from near strangers to close loved ones was so sweet. Grandma's patience and kindness to Winnie's struggles throughout the story almost made me cry. The second best part of the book was Winnie's blossoming relationship with Pippa and Lucía, who both are endearing in their own ways.
My biggest grip with the book comes from the parents.
Overall, this was a good book, but some personal beliefs of mine regarding the handling of the parents held me back from fully enjoying it. I still would wholeheartedly recommend this book, as the relationship between Winnie and her grandma is stellar, and the discussion of miscarriages was done so well here.
3.5/5 stars rounded up.
Ugghh, this book gave me a lot of feels, but there are a couple things personally keeping me back from loving it more.
Firstly, I adore Winnie and her grandma's relationship. Their progression from near strangers to close loved ones was so sweet. Grandma's patience and kindness to Winnie's struggles throughout the story almost made me cry. The second best part of the book was Winnie's blossoming relationship with Pippa and Lucía, who both are endearing in their own ways.
My biggest grip with the book comes from the parents.
Overall, this was a good book, but some personal beliefs of mine regarding the handling of the parents held me back from fully enjoying it. I still would wholeheartedly recommend this book, as the relationship between Winnie and her grandma is stellar, and the discussion of miscarriages was done so well here.
April 2, 2024
Nicole Melleby's "Winnie Nash Is Not Your Sunshine" is a poignant and heartfelt exploration of identity, family, and the journey to self-acceptance. Through the eyes of 12-year-old Winnie Nash, readers are invited into a world of secrets, struggles, and ultimately, triumphs.
As the story unfolds, we are introduced to Winnie, a young girl grappling with the complexities of her family's dynamics while navigating her own emerging sense of identity. Forced to spend the summer with her grandmother, Winnie finds herself torn between loyalty to her family's secrets and the undeniable pull of her authentic self.
Melleby's portrayal of Winnie's journey is both authentic and relatable, capturing the challenges and triumphs of coming to terms with one's identity in the face of societal expectations and familial pressures. As Winnie navigates the ups and downs of her summer with her grandmother, readers are treated to a nuanced exploration of queer representation and the importance of finding community and acceptance.
One of the standout elements of the book is its portrayal of intergenerational connections and the bonds that tie families together. Through Winnie's interactions with her grandmother and her grandmother's friends, Melleby beautifully captures the power of love, understanding, and acceptance across generations.
I found myself deeply moved by Winnie's struggles with her mother's depression and the impact it has on their family. Melleby's sensitive handling of this theme highlights the profound emotional toll that adult problems can have on children, underscoring the importance of open communication and support within families.
The character of Winnie's grandmother resonated deeply with me, reminding me of my own experiences coming out to my family. Her unwavering love and acceptance serve as a beacon of hope for Winnie and readers alike, showcasing the transformative power of unconditional love and understanding.
At its core, "Winnie Nash Is Not Your Sunshine" is a story about the universal need for acceptance, belonging, and love. Through Winnie's journey, Melleby reminds us of the importance of finding community and embracing our true selves, even in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, "Winnie Nash Is Not Your Sunshine" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that speaks to the heart of what it means to be true to oneself. With its richly drawn characters, authentic storytelling, and powerful themes, it is a testament to the transformative power of love, acceptance, and the courage to be oneself.
Nicole Melleby has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and I eagerly anticipate her future works.
As the story unfolds, we are introduced to Winnie, a young girl grappling with the complexities of her family's dynamics while navigating her own emerging sense of identity. Forced to spend the summer with her grandmother, Winnie finds herself torn between loyalty to her family's secrets and the undeniable pull of her authentic self.
Melleby's portrayal of Winnie's journey is both authentic and relatable, capturing the challenges and triumphs of coming to terms with one's identity in the face of societal expectations and familial pressures. As Winnie navigates the ups and downs of her summer with her grandmother, readers are treated to a nuanced exploration of queer representation and the importance of finding community and acceptance.
One of the standout elements of the book is its portrayal of intergenerational connections and the bonds that tie families together. Through Winnie's interactions with her grandmother and her grandmother's friends, Melleby beautifully captures the power of love, understanding, and acceptance across generations.
I found myself deeply moved by Winnie's struggles with her mother's depression and the impact it has on their family. Melleby's sensitive handling of this theme highlights the profound emotional toll that adult problems can have on children, underscoring the importance of open communication and support within families.
The character of Winnie's grandmother resonated deeply with me, reminding me of my own experiences coming out to my family. Her unwavering love and acceptance serve as a beacon of hope for Winnie and readers alike, showcasing the transformative power of unconditional love and understanding.
At its core, "Winnie Nash Is Not Your Sunshine" is a story about the universal need for acceptance, belonging, and love. Through Winnie's journey, Melleby reminds us of the importance of finding community and embracing our true selves, even in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, "Winnie Nash Is Not Your Sunshine" is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant novel that speaks to the heart of what it means to be true to oneself. With its richly drawn characters, authentic storytelling, and powerful themes, it is a testament to the transformative power of love, acceptance, and the courage to be oneself.
Nicole Melleby has quickly become one of my favorite authors, and I eagerly anticipate her future works.
March 24, 2024
I was excited to find another sapphic MG book. This one definitely fell into the coming of age category and dealt with some difficult topics like miscarriages, depression, neglect, and homophobia.
I loved the voice. Winnie was very relatable, and I just wanted to give the girl a big hug and assure her she mattered and that everything would be okay. Maria, Winnie’s godmother, unofficial aunt, and the best friend of Winnie’s mother, was wonderful and the clear MVP of the story. I wish that every LGBTQ+ kid had a Maria to take them to their first Pride and offer them unconditional love and support. I also liked Winnie’s new friends, Pippa and Lucía, and the elderly Jeanne from book club who clearly was doing her best to help out a queer kid in a bad situation. Even Grandma grew on me when her true colors were finally shown.
Fair warning: Winnie’s parents were infuriating, since their obsession with trying to have a second child completely blinded them to the needs of the child they already had. The turmoil they put Winnie through was heartbreaking. While I can understand Winnie’s mother struggling to be present while dealing with depression, miscarriages, and a high risk pregnancy, Winnie’s father had no valid excuse to not pick up the slack and be there for Winnie. Forcing their lesbian daughter into the closet so they could send her to live with a grandmother they believed to be homophobic for the summer was unforgivable in my eyes. Not only was traumatic for Winnie, it could have put her safety at risk. The story also never explained why Winnie couldn’t stay with friends or Maria, go to summer school or summer camp, or even stay home alone some of the time since she was twelve.
Things do turn out mostly all right in the end. Winnie ends up forging strong relationships with her new friends and grandmother. There’s also the promise of more openness from Winnie’s parents along with possible family therapy, but I felt that was too little, too late considering everything they put Winnie through.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving this review
I loved the voice. Winnie was very relatable, and I just wanted to give the girl a big hug and assure her she mattered and that everything would be okay. Maria, Winnie’s godmother, unofficial aunt, and the best friend of Winnie’s mother, was wonderful and the clear MVP of the story. I wish that every LGBTQ+ kid had a Maria to take them to their first Pride and offer them unconditional love and support. I also liked Winnie’s new friends, Pippa and Lucía, and the elderly Jeanne from book club who clearly was doing her best to help out a queer kid in a bad situation. Even Grandma grew on me when her true colors were finally shown.
Fair warning: Winnie’s parents were infuriating, since their obsession with trying to have a second child completely blinded them to the needs of the child they already had. The turmoil they put Winnie through was heartbreaking. While I can understand Winnie’s mother struggling to be present while dealing with depression, miscarriages, and a high risk pregnancy, Winnie’s father had no valid excuse to not pick up the slack and be there for Winnie. Forcing their lesbian daughter into the closet so they could send her to live with a grandmother they believed to be homophobic for the summer was unforgivable in my eyes. Not only was traumatic for Winnie, it could have put her safety at risk. The story also never explained why Winnie couldn’t stay with friends or Maria, go to summer school or summer camp, or even stay home alone some of the time since she was twelve.
Things do turn out mostly all right in the end. Winnie ends up forging strong relationships with her new friends and grandmother. There’s also the promise of more openness from Winnie’s parents along with possible family therapy, but I felt that was too little, too late considering everything they put Winnie through.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher and am voluntarily leaving this review
Want to read
March 28, 2024Every Nicole Melleby book I’ve read so far has been spot-on with its exploration of complex emotions, especially anger, anxiety, and sadness. Those are such huge things that kids feel, and Melleby relates those emotions with unflinching honesty and genuine tenderness. She’s brilliant. I think that’s all there is to it.
Another thing that is so beautiful about this book is the evolution of the relationships in it. At the beginning, Winnie doesn’t feel close to her grandmother. It seems like they mostly get on each other’s nerves. But as the story progresses, Winnie begins to see and understand more about her grandmother, and her grandma’s understanding of Winnie grows, too. They find ways to connect. And then, when Winnie finds herself in an emotional freefall, her grandma is able to meet her there in unexpected ways.
I also loved the friendships between Winnie, Lucía, and Pippa for somewhat the same reason. Winnie grows so much as she gets to know these girls. She learns a lot about friendship and trust. She learns about opening up. It’s so cool.
While the story doesn’t focus on Winnie’s mom’s past miscarriages, and Winnie isn’t even living with her mom for most of the book, some of the snapshots of memories focus on her mom’s feelings of depression afterward and Winnie’s fears about her mom and the baby. I found that to be a super emotional reading experience because of my own experience. I don’t know if it would be helpful for kids who’ve had parents experience a pregnancy loss to read Winnie’s experience or not. It could help give kids a way to articulate some of the things they’re feeling about a really hard situation.
On the whole, I gotta say Nicole Melleby did it again. This is another deep and powerfully told story that welcomes young readers into some of life’s painful places with grace and gentleness and offers respite in the representation of safe, loving adults and the unexpected gift of a good friend.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions my own.
Another thing that is so beautiful about this book is the evolution of the relationships in it. At the beginning, Winnie doesn’t feel close to her grandmother. It seems like they mostly get on each other’s nerves. But as the story progresses, Winnie begins to see and understand more about her grandmother, and her grandma’s understanding of Winnie grows, too. They find ways to connect. And then, when Winnie finds herself in an emotional freefall, her grandma is able to meet her there in unexpected ways.
I also loved the friendships between Winnie, Lucía, and Pippa for somewhat the same reason. Winnie grows so much as she gets to know these girls. She learns a lot about friendship and trust. She learns about opening up. It’s so cool.
While the story doesn’t focus on Winnie’s mom’s past miscarriages, and Winnie isn’t even living with her mom for most of the book, some of the snapshots of memories focus on her mom’s feelings of depression afterward and Winnie’s fears about her mom and the baby. I found that to be a super emotional reading experience because of my own experience. I don’t know if it would be helpful for kids who’ve had parents experience a pregnancy loss to read Winnie’s experience or not. It could help give kids a way to articulate some of the things they’re feeling about a really hard situation.
On the whole, I gotta say Nicole Melleby did it again. This is another deep and powerfully told story that welcomes young readers into some of life’s painful places with grace and gentleness and offers respite in the representation of safe, loving adults and the unexpected gift of a good friend.
Note: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions my own.
April 8, 2024
Winnie is both blessed and cursed, with the blessing being her awareness and comfort about being gay. She's known she likes girls for as long as she can remember. Unfortunately, her curses overshadow that self-awareness. Things like not knowing why her parents hide things from her and want her to refrain from talking about certain things now that she's spending the summer with her grandmother while they 'figure things out.'
Asking a twelve year old to keep things secret when the responsible adults can't seem to hold things together is asking a lot, but Winnie does her best, even though the increasing stress of doing so leaves her feeling like a pressure cooker on high heat.
Fortunately, there are new people in her life including some of the older folks she meets at the senior center where Gram spends time each afternoon. While reluctant, Winnie becomes part of the book discussion group and one of the other members begins giving her books. Winnie's uneasy around the woman after that person spots her at a local pride parade where her mother's best friend has taken her. Then, there are Pippa and Lucia, two girls near her age who make friends with Winnie. Even so, it's an uneasy summer with her having to constantly worry about her mother's health and what she can or can't say around her grandmother.
There are several critical moments for Winnie...Coming out to her new friends, the moment she makes an impulsive decision and hurts Pippa in the process, and her realization that the emotional and physical support she desperately needs might be closer than she realized. This is a great story about making it through the mess of families and the resilience of friendship. It's a strong read for gay tweens, as well as those who feel like the burden for keeping their family from fragmenting is on their shoulders
Asking a twelve year old to keep things secret when the responsible adults can't seem to hold things together is asking a lot, but Winnie does her best, even though the increasing stress of doing so leaves her feeling like a pressure cooker on high heat.
Fortunately, there are new people in her life including some of the older folks she meets at the senior center where Gram spends time each afternoon. While reluctant, Winnie becomes part of the book discussion group and one of the other members begins giving her books. Winnie's uneasy around the woman after that person spots her at a local pride parade where her mother's best friend has taken her. Then, there are Pippa and Lucia, two girls near her age who make friends with Winnie. Even so, it's an uneasy summer with her having to constantly worry about her mother's health and what she can or can't say around her grandmother.
There are several critical moments for Winnie...Coming out to her new friends, the moment she makes an impulsive decision and hurts Pippa in the process, and her realization that the emotional and physical support she desperately needs might be closer than she realized. This is a great story about making it through the mess of families and the resilience of friendship. It's a strong read for gay tweens, as well as those who feel like the burden for keeping their family from fragmenting is on their shoulders
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April 24, 2024This was a coming of age story about a 12 year old girl who is dealing with spending the summer with a grandmother she barely knows. Her mom is pregnant and dealing with past pregnancies that ended in miscarriage. According to Winnie, her mom has "lost her smiles" and is very sad. Winnie can't understand why her mom would want to be pregnant again. Isn't Winnie enough for her mom and dad?
Winnie is under strict instructions by her dad to never discuss what goes on inside their house. The fact that he's lost his job, (but has gotten another, less paying job). Her mom's miscarriages and subsequent depression. Winnie's attraction to girls. None of this is anyone's business but theirs.
As she spends the summer with her grandmother in a retirement community on the Jersey shore, Winnie eventually realizes that keeping secrets can be just as destructive as if she told them. As she makes friends with two girls, sneaks off to Pride in New York, and learns that her grandmother is not as mean as her mom led her to believe, Winnie realizes life, like smiles, have their ups and downs, but in the end family is everything.
I found this as an audiobook on my library's website. I usually don't listen to YA books, but this was going to be "just until another book comes in." I'm really glad I decided to listen to it.
I wish Goodreads would let us give 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 stars. This was a 4.75 star rating. The only reason I didn't give it a 5 star was the reader never finds out if Winnie has a baby brother or baby sister. I know, it's the smallest of things.
Trigger warnings: miscarriages, depression, fear of coming out of the closet, death
Winnie is under strict instructions by her dad to never discuss what goes on inside their house. The fact that he's lost his job, (but has gotten another, less paying job). Her mom's miscarriages and subsequent depression. Winnie's attraction to girls. None of this is anyone's business but theirs.
As she spends the summer with her grandmother in a retirement community on the Jersey shore, Winnie eventually realizes that keeping secrets can be just as destructive as if she told them. As she makes friends with two girls, sneaks off to Pride in New York, and learns that her grandmother is not as mean as her mom led her to believe, Winnie realizes life, like smiles, have their ups and downs, but in the end family is everything.
I found this as an audiobook on my library's website. I usually don't listen to YA books, but this was going to be "just until another book comes in." I'm really glad I decided to listen to it.
I wish Goodreads would let us give 1/4, 1/2 and 3/4 stars. This was a 4.75 star rating. The only reason I didn't give it a 5 star was the reader never finds out if Winnie has a baby brother or baby sister. I know, it's the smallest of things.
Trigger warnings: miscarriages, depression, fear of coming out of the closet, death
March 22, 2024
Winnie Nash is being sent to live with her grandma all summer and being forced by her parents to stay in the closet. Winnie's mom has been trying for years to have another baby, but has never carried one successfully to term, and often ends up depressed as a result. Winnie is determined to save her smiles and laughter so her mom can have them instead.
This book showed the importance of having a community. Winnie feels like she doesn't have anybody she can truly depend on. Her parents are incredibly focused on her mom's pregnancy, she's not allowed to be honest with her grandma about the fact that she's a lesbian or what's really going on with her parents, and she's surrounded by old people who aren't all glad she's around. She does eventually meet two new friends, but struggles with the fact that her parents told her to keep her troubles within the family only within the family. I'm surprised the parents never realized how harmful it was for them to tell Winnie that she couldn't talk about what was going on with her to anybody outside of her parents, who didn't pay much attention to her anyway. Her mom's friend Maria was great and Winnie is lucky she has somebody like that in her life.
I do think that the mom was incredibly selfish for never once thinking that maybe her constant stream of miscarriages and depression would have a negative impact on the child that she already had and was failing. Hopefully Winnie will be able to forgive her.
CW: miscarriage, blood, hospital, depression, mild bullying, mention of death of a spouse due to illness,
This book showed the importance of having a community. Winnie feels like she doesn't have anybody she can truly depend on. Her parents are incredibly focused on her mom's pregnancy, she's not allowed to be honest with her grandma about the fact that she's a lesbian or what's really going on with her parents, and she's surrounded by old people who aren't all glad she's around. She does eventually meet two new friends, but struggles with the fact that her parents told her to keep her troubles within the family only within the family. I'm surprised the parents never realized how harmful it was for them to tell Winnie that she couldn't talk about what was going on with her to anybody outside of her parents, who didn't pay much attention to her anyway. Her mom's friend Maria was great and Winnie is lucky she has somebody like that in her life.
I do think that the mom was incredibly selfish for never once thinking that maybe her constant stream of miscarriages and depression would have a negative impact on the child that she already had and was failing. Hopefully Winnie will be able to forgive her.
CW: miscarriage, blood, hospital, depression, mild bullying, mention of death of a spouse due to illness,
April 3, 2024
Winnie Nash sounds like the name of an elderly woman, but surprise! The Winnie Nash in this book is a 12-year-old girl. However, she is spending the summer at her grandmother's retirement community. This is to make her mom's life a little less stressful as she tries to finish out her pregnancy after suffering numerous miscarriages. Winnie does NOT want to be the only kid with a bunch of seniors. She's not particularly close with her grandma either. To top it all off, she has been told not to discuss things inside the home with people outside the home - things like her mother's miscarriages and the fact that Winnie has liked girls for her entire life.
Things start looking up when Winnie meets two girls her age and starts hanging out with them, Still, she wishes she didn't have to keep so many secrets from her grandmother and her friends. She is also dying to go to New York City's Pride parade but how can she get there without telling her grandma?
I love the way this story centers around the idea that letting those around us in almost always proves to be a good thing. I also love the way that Winnie and her grandmother's relationship blossoms and flourishes over the course of the story. What I didn't care for was the writing style. The author frequently referenced Winnie by name when it really wasn't necessary. t made the writing feel a little clunky and juvenile. Overall though, I really enjoyed this book. It's a great summer (or anytime) read for upper elementary readers.
Thanks to Algonquin Young Readers and NetGalley for a review copy of this title.
Things start looking up when Winnie meets two girls her age and starts hanging out with them, Still, she wishes she didn't have to keep so many secrets from her grandmother and her friends. She is also dying to go to New York City's Pride parade but how can she get there without telling her grandma?
I love the way this story centers around the idea that letting those around us in almost always proves to be a good thing. I also love the way that Winnie and her grandmother's relationship blossoms and flourishes over the course of the story. What I didn't care for was the writing style. The author frequently referenced Winnie by name when it really wasn't necessary. t made the writing feel a little clunky and juvenile. Overall though, I really enjoyed this book. It's a great summer (or anytime) read for upper elementary readers.
Thanks to Algonquin Young Readers and NetGalley for a review copy of this title.
March 14, 2024
4.25 ⭐️
A solid middle grade read that tackles several tough topics.
Winnie is spending the summer with her grandma to help Winnie's parents prepare for the new baby. Although Winnie's parents support her knowing she's gay, her dad tells her not to tell grandma. Winnie is angry at her parents for sending her away and scared that her grandma will reject her if she finds out about Winnie's sexuality. When it looks like Winnie's mom is in danger of losing the baby (again), Winnie has had enough.
I appreciated a lot of things about this book - a messy family trying to figure things out, highlighting miscarriage and depression, the importance of queer community and support in all its forms. The writing is very accessible for a younger audience, and I could absolutely see my kids reading this. I didn't like the way it was never explained why exactly Winnie was sent away in the first place, but I loved the mom's best friend, the grandma and her neighbor, and the two girls Winnie befriends. I also appreciated that the family was looking to therapy by the end instead of going on the way they were. Love the positive mental health rep.
A solid middle grade read that tackles several tough topics.
Winnie is spending the summer with her grandma to help Winnie's parents prepare for the new baby. Although Winnie's parents support her knowing she's gay, her dad tells her not to tell grandma. Winnie is angry at her parents for sending her away and scared that her grandma will reject her if she finds out about Winnie's sexuality. When it looks like Winnie's mom is in danger of losing the baby (again), Winnie has had enough.
I appreciated a lot of things about this book - a messy family trying to figure things out, highlighting miscarriage and depression, the importance of queer community and support in all its forms. The writing is very accessible for a younger audience, and I could absolutely see my kids reading this. I didn't like the way it was never explained why exactly Winnie was sent away in the first place, but I loved the mom's best friend, the grandma and her neighbor, and the two girls Winnie befriends. I also appreciated that the family was looking to therapy by the end instead of going on the way they were. Love the positive mental health rep.
March 30, 2024
Winnie Nash has a lot to deal with as a 12 year old girl. She’s dealing with her own identity, parental issues, and having to spend the summer with a grandmother she doesn’t know very well.
I enjoyed the story and thought Winnie was a well developed character. I think many young readers will be able to connect to her. Winnie’s friends were also very enjoyable characters. They were so supportive of her right even though they hadn’t known her long. The most surprising thing for me was how much I liked Winnie’s grandmother. Her love for Winnie really shined through. Winnie’s parents on the other hand left something to be desired. I felt like the storyline with them was a bit underdeveloped. Some questions related to them were answered, but I feel like overall they were very self centered and focused on their own problems. I thought the discussion about seeking family therapy at the end of the book was important and I’m glad it was included.
Overall, this is an engaging and thought provoking middle grade book. I just wish the situation with the parents had been flushed out a bit more.
I enjoyed the story and thought Winnie was a well developed character. I think many young readers will be able to connect to her. Winnie’s friends were also very enjoyable characters. They were so supportive of her right even though they hadn’t known her long. The most surprising thing for me was how much I liked Winnie’s grandmother. Her love for Winnie really shined through. Winnie’s parents on the other hand left something to be desired. I felt like the storyline with them was a bit underdeveloped. Some questions related to them were answered, but I feel like overall they were very self centered and focused on their own problems. I thought the discussion about seeking family therapy at the end of the book was important and I’m glad it was included.
Overall, this is an engaging and thought provoking middle grade book. I just wish the situation with the parents had been flushed out a bit more.
April 16, 2024
here’s the deal. my heart belongs to the jersey shore.
and this felt like such a love letter to everything that makes me who i am. there’s something about the shore that just makes you stop and reflect, where you can face your conflicts head on. i knew i was a lesbian in eighth grade, and i spent countless walks on boardwalks with my family internally angsting over it. if i could tell that version of me anything, i’d let her know that it all ends up okay in the end. i’m 19 now, finishing up my first year of college, and i came out to my parents back in december.
all of this to say i would’ve loved this book in middle school, literally set in front of a backdrop of all of my favorite places. winnie captures what it means to know yourself and to be so angry about it in only the way a thirteen year old can. i’ve never had a book remind me so strongly of how tethered to the sea i am and also that the little girl i was before deserves compassion when i look back and think of her.
ok sorry that’s all thanks for reading it’s 2 am and i need to stop treating my goodreads reviews like my journal
and this felt like such a love letter to everything that makes me who i am. there’s something about the shore that just makes you stop and reflect, where you can face your conflicts head on. i knew i was a lesbian in eighth grade, and i spent countless walks on boardwalks with my family internally angsting over it. if i could tell that version of me anything, i’d let her know that it all ends up okay in the end. i’m 19 now, finishing up my first year of college, and i came out to my parents back in december.
all of this to say i would’ve loved this book in middle school, literally set in front of a backdrop of all of my favorite places. winnie captures what it means to know yourself and to be so angry about it in only the way a thirteen year old can. i’ve never had a book remind me so strongly of how tethered to the sea i am and also that the little girl i was before deserves compassion when i look back and think of her.
ok sorry that’s all thanks for reading it’s 2 am and i need to stop treating my goodreads reviews like my journal
April 13, 2024
This middle grade novel was incredibly touching. Nicole Melleby shares with emotion and sincerity topics such as mental health, miscarriage, fear of rejection and queerness. The particularity of this novel is how all the events are described and felt through the eyes of Winnie Nash, a twelve years old sent to spend the summer at her grandmother’s beach house. For the teenager, it seems totally unfair : she has to spend her days with senior citizens while worrying about her pregnant mother. Her mum lost several babies in the past years and Winnie is ready to do everything to make her smile, even avoiding talking about her own feelings, emotions, thoughts and hiding her true self.
Winnie Nash is not your Sunshine is full of sadness and tears, but above all and more importantly full of hope and smiles. It is the story of a young girl falling deep into a dark hole, but who finds friends and family members to help her rise and celebrate the love they all have for each other. It is a celebration of life and acceptance, and a tender story full of wonderful characters.
Winnie Nash is not your Sunshine is full of sadness and tears, but above all and more importantly full of hope and smiles. It is the story of a young girl falling deep into a dark hole, but who finds friends and family members to help her rise and celebrate the love they all have for each other. It is a celebration of life and acceptance, and a tender story full of wonderful characters.
April 17, 2024
There are so many things I loved about it. The basic premise is that Winnie’s mom, after multiple miscarriages and a long depression, is pregnant again and Winnie’s parents have decided that Winnie should spend her summer at her grandmother’s place so that her parents can take some time together. But they have asked Winnie not to share with her grandmother that her mom was so depressed or that Winnie herself is gay; they don’t really explain any of it, they just act like it’s her duty to keep their secrets. And because Winnie loves her parents and is worried about her mom, she does. This is a book about what it is like to keep your worries and feelings to yourself and what the effect of that is - Winnie is holding so much on her 12 year old shoulders that it’s hard for her to get close to anyone, even her new friends at the beach. While all of this sounds heavy, the book is really sweet and cozy - I liked her grandmother, her friends, her mom’s friend, and Winnie herself felt really relatable in a way I feel like kids will appreciate.
April 2, 2024
Winnie Nash is spending the summer on the Jersey Shore, but she doesn't want to be there... sleeping on her grandmothers sofa, spending her days at the community center, having to hide who she really is, and missing Pride for yet another year. Winnie cannot understand why her parents sent her away to her grandmothers house. She doesn't know why her parents are trying for yet another baby, after all of the disappointments, and periods of depression from her mother. And most of all Winnie doesn't understand why she isn't enough...
This was a cute book that confronted a lot of potentially difficult topics such as, Young Adult LGBTQI*, depression, mis-carriage, siblings, and friendships. The book also addresses the importance of clear communication in the family dynamic.
Generally, I found this an enjoyable book that both Young adults and adults can enjoy this summer, I would recommend to anyone looking for an easy to read book that still has some "meaning" behind it.
This was a cute book that confronted a lot of potentially difficult topics such as, Young Adult LGBTQI*, depression, mis-carriage, siblings, and friendships. The book also addresses the importance of clear communication in the family dynamic.
Generally, I found this an enjoyable book that both Young adults and adults can enjoy this summer, I would recommend to anyone looking for an easy to read book that still has some "meaning" behind it.
May 6, 2024
Winnifred Maude Nash is not happy about having to spend the summer with the old folks in her grandmother’s retirement community. Her mom has suffered multiple miscarriages over the course of her life and is pregnant again. Instead of talking to her about it, Winnie’s parents just sent her away to live with her grandma for the summer. But, her grandma doesn’t know a secret about Winnie. She’s gay. Has been for as long as she can remember. Winnie tries being mad all summer and not talking about all the things she’s holding inside. But when she makes an unexpected trip to the city by herself, she realizes she had what she was looking for back at her grandma’s community: people who care about her. This is great middle school age book about grief, family, and figuring out who you are and who you want to be.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
January 8, 2024
So many families have secrets. Things they do not want shared outside of the home. 12 year old Winnie has known she has liked girls forever- it was never something that confused her. Her parents send her to spend the summer with her grandmother in a retirement community. A grandmother who she barely knows, while her parents are dealing with another pregnancy. Winnie’s mom has had many miscarriages and they are trying to shield Winnie from her mom’s anxiety & depression during this latest pregnancy. Winnie feels shut out- shipped off- left out of the loop and is not allowed to talk about being gay or her mom’s pregnancy with her grandmother or anyone. A fantastic discussion book! A fantastic book to add to libraries.
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