Is your daughter nervous about moving to a new school? Whether it’s a change in city, neighborhood, or even just starting middle school, transitions can feel overwhelming. Faith Girls: Growing in Grace tells the story of Emma Grace Carter, a kind-hearted middle schooler who faces this very challenge—and her story may be just what your child needs to feel less alone.

When Emma’s family moves from Maplewood to Meadowbrook, she is forced to leave behind everything she knows—her best friend Lily, her church, her school, and her sense of belonging. The change is hard, and the sadness runs deep. She doesn’t pretend to be okay, and that’s what makes her story feel so honest and relatable.

Emma struggles with big emotions—fear, sadness, and loneliness. She whispers simple prayers at night and clings to the cross bracelet her best friend gave her. These small moments show young readers that it’s okay to have doubts, and it’s okay to talk to God even when you don’t know what to say.

What makes Faith Girls stand out is how it gently shows the slow and sometimes awkward path toward finding new friends. Emma doesn’t walk into school with bold confidence. Instead, she walks in quietly, unsure of where to sit or who will talk to her. It’s this quiet courage that makes her journey meaningful. She keeps going, even when every day feels uncomfortable.

Soon, Emma meets three very different girls: Abby, who is bubbly and open about her faith, Sofia, who speaks her mind with sarcasm, and Priya, who is thoughtful and logical but questions everything. These girls don’t instantly become best friends. In fact, their first group project together is full of conflict. They argue, misunderstand one another, and have very different ideas. But slowly, they begin to see each other’s strengths.

This part of the book is so helpful for girls going through similar changes. It shows that real friendships take time. It’s not about being perfect or trying to fit in. It’s about showing up, listening, and learning to care about others even when it’s hard.

Emma’s story doesn’t promise that everything will magically work out. There are still challenges. She still misses home. But by the end of the book, she finds her place—not because she changed who she was, but because she stayed true to herself.

If your daughter is anxious about starting over, Faith Girls: Growing in Grace is a story that can gently encourage her heart. It reminds her that being nervous is normal, friendships take time, and even when she feels alone—God sees her and walks with her.

It’s the kind of book that leaves girls feeling seen, supported, and a little more hopeful about the road ahead.