Just Right Jillian [Hardcover]

In this heartfelt middle grade novel from debut author Nicole D. Collier, fifth grader Jillian must learn to speak and break free of her shell to enter her school's academic competition and keep her promise to her grandmother. 

Fifth grader Jillian will do just about anything to blend in, including staying quiet even when she has the right answer. After she loses a classroom competition because she won't speak up, she sets her mind on winning her school's biggest competition.

But breaking out of her shell is easier said than done, and Jillian has only a month to keep her promise to her grandmother and prove to herself that she can speak up and show everyone her true self. 

A warm and relatable middle grade debut novel about family, friendship, and finding the confidence to break free from the crowd and be who you truly are.

• A CCBC Best of the Year
• A Bank Street College Best Book of the Year

Just Right Jillian masterfully weaves several themes together: overcoming one's fears, learning to speak up and stand out, friendship, grief, and STEM. Readers will root for Jillian from the very beginning to its heartwarming end.”  -Janae Marks, Author of From The Desk of Zoe Washington

A heartwarming story of friendship, facing your fears, and learning to believe in yourself!   -Claribel A. Ortega, author of Ghost Squad

A tender tale of self-acceptance and friendship, this title is an excellent pick for middle graders grappling with the big questions surrounding identity, expression, and the beauty of our different paths of growth.    -Bulletin of the Center for Childrens Books

Debut author Collier offers an expressively told, inspirational novel that considers grief, chronic illness of a family member, and anxiety while showcasing the power of practicing lovelĠ