Fearless: A Middle Grade Adventure Story by Kristin F. Johnson

Awards and Honors: Midwest Independent Publishers Association (MIPA) Middle Grade Finalist, 2023 Moonbeam Children's Book Awards, First Book Fiction Finalist, 2024 Battle of the Books Selection, Brainerd, Minnesota, Libraries, 2024 A Heartfelt Adventure About Friendship, Courage, and Rescuing a Dog in Danger It's summer break, and Jessie Nelson and her dad move to a small town in southern Minnesota while her mom is deployed overseas. Adjusting to a new place is not easy, but Jessie begins to feel less alone after forming a friendship with Nicky, a theater-loving classmate, and Oscar, who understands what it is like to have family serving in the military far from home. As their friendship grows, the three discover an illegal puppy mill hidden in a barn and are faced with a difficult choice about what to do next. Jessie decides to rescue one of the dogs and bring her home, hoping that this small act of courage can make a real difference. Soon, Jessie realizes that keeping the dog a secret from her dad and grandpa is difficult. She relies on her friends for help as she figures out how to care for the distressed dog while also navigating change, responsibility, anxiety about her mother, and uncertainty. Fearless is a warm and meaningful story about friendship, compassion, and finding bravery in everyday moments. It encourages readers to consider how helping others can help us heal and grow as well. Read more