Gia
Gordon
Author
Educator
Speaker
Literacy Activist
Releasing November 12, 2024
#MySoCalledFamily
My So Called Family
Farrar, Straus and Giroux
It’s the first week of middle school, and Ash (don’t call her “Ashley”) already has a class assignment: Make a family tree. But how can Ash make a family tree if she doesn’t have a family? Ever since she was four years old, Ash has been in foster care, living with one so-called family after another. Now she’s stuck with Gladys. And the only place Ash feels safe is in the branches of her favorite tree, drawing in her sketchbook, hidden from the view of Gladys’ son Jordan.
As Jordan becomes harder to hide from, and more dangerous to be around, Ash isn’t sure who she can trust. A new friend, an old friend, some teachers at school? Sometimes the hardest part of asking for help is knowing who to ask.
In My So-Called Family, Gia Gordon weaves a lyrical story about complicated family dynamics that’s perfect for fans of Fish in a Tree and Counting by 7s.
Advance Praise
My So-Called Family
KIRKUS REVIEWS
Starred Review
Gordon’s middle-grade debut is gritty, messy, and honest, with complex, nuanced characters navigating a realistically complex world . . . A finely drawn and cleanly written story that will give readers hope.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Starred Review
In her debut middle grade novel, Gordon delivers a strong message about the necessity of letting in people who will see and support one’s most authentic self.
School Library Journal
Ash’s voice is authentic and moving, and readers will root for her as she learns who to trust . . .
An affecting story of persistent trauma that leaves the door open for eventual healing.
MARIAMA J. LOCKINGTON
Schneider Family Book Award Winner
A heart affirming, honest, and beautiful book. Gia Gordon has given us a story full of lyrical, exact, and tenacious prose, as we climb wise trees, cry, laugh, and find our voices alongside Ash . . . I loved every page—a gorgeous rendering of what it means to find home in ourselves and others.
G. NERI
Michael L. Printz Winner &
Coretta Scott King Honor
With humor and compassion, Gia Gordon explores the nuances of what it means to be a family, respectfully balancing between the realities of foster care and the universal desire to belong. My So-Called Family hits home.
ERNESTO CISNEROS
Pura Belpré Winning Author
Poignant, powerful, and brilliantly crafted. I couldn’t put this book down. This story is narrated authentically and respectfully . . . a true love letter to all kiddos searching for a place to call home. This much-needed book will stay with you long after you put it down.
Booklist
A tough book that doesn’t shy away from challenging families and scary nights, this debut novel allows Ash to grow not only in resilience but also her ability to rely on others once she allows her friends and teachers in. Hand to fans of Ellen Hopkins and Barbara Dee.
CONTACT
For any media inquiries, please contact my agent Erin Murphy:
Erin Murphy Literary Agency | https://emliterary.com/
