Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1980s New Orleans, spirited young Sarah embarks on a journey of self-discovery—learning the power of empathy, and the strength of a kind heart.

With her mother away, and her father often unpredictable, Sarah feels adrift in a household where her older sister, Deborah, is more rival than confidante. As she faces the chaos of home and the challenges of the schoolyard, Sarah’s vivid imagination becomes her escape, turning everyday moments into magical adventures.

When a moment of impulsiveness leads Sarah to steal a classmate's prized possession she is forced into a whirlwind of guilt and self-reflection. However, everything changes when she meets Copper, a stray dog who teaches her about loyalty and love. Through their bond, the young girl learns that forgiveness is not just about making amends with others—it is about forgiving yourself too.

But can Sarah find the courage to embrace her mistakes and grow from them, or will her fiery spirit lead her astray?

With humor, heart, and a touch of magic, this beautifully illustrated children’s book captures the bittersweet journey of growing up and highlights the importance of compassion and redemption.

Format & Unique Features
• An illustrated chapter book with 9 full-color illustrations — not just spot art, but fully developed, vibrant pieces that invite readers to pause and imagine.
• A hybrid between text-driven chapter books (like Ivy + Bean) and art-rich storytelling (like The Wild Robot).

Themes & Takeaways
• Explores forgiveness, imagination, courage, and grace — framed in ways children can connect with.
• The Knightly Princess Creed at the end offers a memorable moral, making it classroom- and discussion-friendly.

Comparables
• Readers of Because of Winn-Dixie (heartfelt dog story + Southern setting).
• Fans of The Princess in Black series (illustrated, accessible chapter books).
• Readers who love The Wild Robot (illustrations as an integral storytelling feature).

Review Angle Suggestions
• For parents/teachers: How the book encourages discussions about empathy and forgiveness.
• For librarians: Its blend of illustration + text makes it a great bridge for reluctant readers.
• For bloggers/influencers: The lush artwork is Instagram- and Pinterest-friendly; visuals make for strong social content.