Hannah Backwards

Hannah Backwards by Kim Rackham is a touching story about friendship, change, and the courage to embrace new beginnings, even when saying goodbye feels impossible.

Hannah loves the familiar rhythm of her days—walking to school with her best friend Izzi, spending afternoons with Nana and Pop, and enjoying cosy weekends with her parents. When Nana gives her a special worry stone to bring calm in uncertain moments, Hannah tucks it safely in her pocket. But change is on the horizon.

First, her beloved teacher, Mr. Spicer, leaves. Then, the unthinkable happens—Izzi is moving away. As Hannah struggles with the idea of saying goodbye, her worry stone is always in her hand, but it can’t stop the storm of emotions building inside her. A moment of anger threatens to shatter everything they’ve shared, and Hannah is left to find a way to make things right.

With courage, kindness, and the quiet strength of her worry stone, Hannah learns that endings are also beginnings—and that friendships, like the smoothest of stones, can be carried with us wherever we go.

This heartfelt verse novel is perfect for younger readers who are navigating the complexities of change and the enduring power of friendship.