A scary health crisis puts Han on a journey that will test his resiliency, strain his relationships, and reveal who his true and supportive friends really are.

First comes the cancer diagnosis. The treatment requires hospital stays, extended absences from school, and a time out from the basketball team. With his health uncertain, Han can’t stop himself from wondering if his life is about to be cut short. When he hears the good news that his cancer is in remission, there’s jubilation and relief. But a second challenge now weighs on him.

How will his teammates and classmates treat him when he comes back to school?

At the start of his treatment, they offered lots of encouragement and support. They showered him with get-well wishes and silly cards. His basketball buddies texted and messaged, making Han feel connected and part of the group. But as the days out of school and away from friends turned to weeks, and the weeks turned to months, Han felt a shift. Conversations became more infrequent. Interactions felt more awkward. Everyone, it seemed, was acting different.

And now, as Han gets ready to come back to the classroom, he questions if he will fit in. He wonders if the laughs, jokes, and good times with his teammates are over. He fears his relationships are never going to be the same.

I’m Sick, But That’s Not What Hurts is a dramatic, thought-provoking chapter book that highlights the importance of friends and family, belonging and connection. Young readers are reminded that when life throws hard punches, the best way to respond is with courage, patience, and grit.

Educators and group leaders can supplement the story with a Teacher and Counselor Activity Guide. The guide provides self-reflection questions and activities, including group work and role-play, to engage readers more deeply with the text.

Award-winning author and school counselor Jennifer Licate’s celebrated series, Navigating Friendships, also includes these popular titles: Faking Happiness, Feeling Sadness; Why Is Drama Always Following Me?; My Anxiety Is Messing Things Up; He’s Not Just Teasing!; I Lost My BFF; and Am I Weird?

Her award-winning Nurturing Independence series includes the recently released My Schoolwork Is a Mess!, a chapter book for middle school students stuck in the dreaded homework hole.