Learning to Fall

“An authentic and hopeful look at a young girl with a passion for skateboarding who is struggling to understand and forgive an alcoholic parent with the support of family and friends.”–School Library Journal“Most stories about alcohol addiction don’t always focus on the complexities of recovery and forgiveness like Engelfried does, and the theme of family resonates.”–Booklist“An honest story about alcoholism and forgiveness.”–Kirkus Reviews“Learning to Fall is something rare and captivating: equal parts family story, coming of age novel, and sports book. Readers’ hearts will dip and soar as Daphne learns not only how to ollie and kickflip, but also who she is and all she’s capable of being.” –Tricia Springstubb, author of Cody and the Fountain of Happiness“Engelfried performs quite a trick mixing joy, struggle, and healing in this relatable, wonderful book. Grab your pads and helmet, and get ready to drop in to a touching and inspiring read.”–Lisa Moore Ramée, author of A Good Kind of Trouble and Something to Say

Sally Engelfried was the recipient of a writer’s merit grant for a residency at the Vermont Studio Center in 2018 and the Golden Gate Writer’s Award from SCBWI in 2014. She is currently a children’s librarian in Oakland, California, where she lives with her husband, two cats, and a dog who is fond of stealing slippers. Learning to Fall is her first novel.