Things That Grow

After her grandmother dies, a girl travels to different gardens to scatter her ashes, learning about life and love along the way. From Love Letters advice columnist and podcast host Meredith Goldstein, this emotionally resonant novel with a touch of humor is perfect for fans of Robin Benway and Jenna Evans Welch.

When Lori's Dorothy Parker-loving grandmother dies, Lori's world is turned upside down. Grandma Sheryl was everything to Lori-and not just because Sheryl raised Lori when Lori's mom got a job out of town. Now Lori's mom is insisting on moving her away from her beloved Boston right before senior year. Desperate to stay for as long as possible, Lori insists on honoring her grandmother's last request before she moves: to scatter Sheryl's ashes near things that grow.

Along with her uncle Seth and Chris, best friend and love-of-her-life crush, Lori sets off on a road trip to visit her grandmother's favorite gardens. Dodging forest bathers, scandalized volunteers, and angry homeowners, they come to terms with the shape of life after Grandma Sheryl. Saying goodbye isn't easy, but Lori might just find a way to move forward surrounded by the people she loves.

One last road trip. One last chance to stay. One best friend she can’t stop thinking about.

• Road Trip Adventure: Lori, her uncle Seth, and her crush Chris set off to honor Grandma Sheryl’s last wish, dodging everything from angry homeowners to forest bathers along the way.
• A Heartbreaking Loss: A powerfully emotional story about grieving the person who raised you and learning how to move forward when your world is turned upside down.
• Senior Year Drama: With her mom insisting she move away from Boston before senior year, Lori fights to hold on to the life and friends she loves.
• Found Family Bonds: A funny and heartfelt exploration of family in all its forms, from the cool uncle who steps up to the best friend who might be something more.