The List of Things That Will Not Change

Author Rebecca Stead

Grades 3-7 Ages 8-12

EIGHT STARRED REVIEWS! The reassuring book kids and families need right now.

"An absolute original . . . a story that kids will love." --R. J. Palacio, bestselling author of Wonder

At a time when everything is changing for Bea and her family, the important things will always stay the same. A soon-to-be classic by the Newbery Award-winning author of When You Reach Me.

After her parents' divorce, Bea's life became different in many ways. But she can always look back at the list she keeps in her green notebook to remember the things that will stay the same. The first and most important: Mom and Dad will always love Bea, and each other.

When Dad tells Bea that he and his boyfriend, Jesse, are getting married, Bea is thrilled. Bea loves Jesse, and when he and Dad get married, she'll finally (finally!) have what she's always wanted--a sister. Even though she's never met Jesse's daughter, Sonia, Bea is sure that they'll be "just like sisters anywhere."

As the wedding day approaches, Bea will learn that making a new family brings questions, surprises, and joy, and readers will discover why the New York Times called Rebecca Stead a "writer of great feeling."

"An undeniably beautiful book." --The New York Times

"No author writing today observes young lives with more clarity, tenderness, and grace." --Newbery Medalist Katherine Applegate, author of The One and Only Ivan

"Stead truly understands the inner life of kids." --Newbery Medalist Erin Entrada Kelly, author of Hello, Universe and You Go First

Available Formats

Trade Paperback 9781101938126
Hardcover Library Binding 9781101938102
eBook 9781101938119
Unabridged Audiobook Download 9780593155363

State Awards

Illinois

2024, AISLE Readers’ Choice Awards, Selection

Kansas

2020, Kansas NEA Reading Circle, Selection

Mississippi

2022, Magnolia Book Award, Nominee

Nevada

2022, Nevada Book Award, Nominee

2022-2023, Golden Sower Award, Nominee

New Hampshire

2020, Great Stone Face Book Award, Nominee

Rhode Island

2022, Rhode Island Children’s Book Award, Nominee

Featured In

Random House Children's Books Teachers and Librarians