Here in the Real World

In Here in the Real World, a boy named Ware navigates the challenges of summer camp and discovers friendship in an unexpected place.

In Here in the Real World, the latest novel from the acclaimed author of Pax, readers are introduced to Ware, a young boy who longs for a summer filled with solitude and imagination. His dreams of a peaceful break are shattered when his parents enroll him in Rec camp, a place where social interactions and group activities reign supreme. For Ware, the thought of mingling with other kids is daunting, as he prefers to immerse himself in his own world, free from the pressures of fitting in.

During his first day at camp, Ware encounters Jolene, a fierce and enigmatic girl who is busy cultivating a garden in the ruins of an abandoned church nearby. Despite their contrasting personalities—Ware, the introspective dreamer, and Jolene, the pragmatic realist—they discover a shared sanctuary in the garden. As they navigate their differences, Ware and Jolene form an unlikely friendship, finding solace in their secret haven away from the chaos of the camp.

However, their refuge faces an imminent threat, prompting Ware to take action. He begins to question what it truly means to be a hero in the real world. Through their journey, Here in the Real World explores themes of friendship, identity, and the courage it takes to stand up for what matters most, making it a poignant read for children aged 9 to 12.