The Sound of a Rainbow by Sharon Frayne

Sometimes the challenges we resist the most can give us the strength to transform into the person we want to be.

Troubled, almost 16-year-old Raven Tantie just wants to be left alone, after her disastrous final performance in The Teen Talent show goes viral on social media. Worse, following a therapist's advice, her divorcing parents send her to Rainbow Wings, an inclusive summer camp for the performing arts in Northern Ontario. Initially, Raven is angry at the world, but inside she's desperate for acceptance and belonging. Campers with physical exceptionalities, learning disabilities, and complex neurodiversity are welcome at Rainbow Wings.

Anxious and self-absorbed, Raven resists the charms of the quirky staff, the other campers, and the beautiful natural environment. When Ash, a camper with autism struggles to cope, her empathy for others begins to grow. Camp Director J. B., a former rock musician and professional clown, utilizes a philosophy of loving respect to help the campers. His estranged elderly mother lives in an abandoned wildlife sanctuary nearby, under threat from unscrupulous developers.

When hard decisions have to be made, can Raven learn to use kindness and honesty to help new friends and herself? Because sometimes, when life deals hard problems, you can regain your confidence, and with trust and hope, build a better future.(From Latitude 46)

The Sound of a Rainbowis for ages 14and up.

Sharon Frayne is a retired principal, artist and writer who divides her time between Niagara and Muskoka Lakes, Ont.