"More than a stunning debut. It is the announcement of a bold new literary voice"
—Stephen Chbosky, author of The Perks of Being a Wallflower

I wish you hadn’t left so soon. I remember when I’d come visit every summer and you’d take me on a paddle boat covered in sky blue paint that would leave slow rolling waves trailing behind as you paddled forward. I was too short of my lets to reach the paddles back then buy I was happy just to watch your strength propel us forward. I remember how we’d glide through the water and maneuver our way around small rocks that stuck up from the water as if to spy on our happiness. Eventually we’d make it to the lily pads which gathered around our painted paddle boat like clouds father in the sky. I remember how we didn’t have to say a word, our love for each other simply hung in the silence. I remember we could sit there for hours and just smell the scent of fresh pine and dank moss. I remember how you’d smile at me. I don’t want to forget.