Illustrated by @anabidault
Twelve-year-old Maisie is an artist. When she’s in front of her sketchbook or apprenticing at Glenna’s Portraits, the family-run art shop her grandmother started, the world makes sense. She doesn’t think about Calum, her brother who mysteriously left home and cut ties with her family six years ago, or her parents’ insistence that she “broaden her horizons” and try something new—something that isn’t art.
But when Glenna’s Portraits falls on hard times, Maisie’s plan to take over the shop when she’s older and become a lifelong artist starts to crumble. In desperation to make things right, Maisie runs away to London to reconnect with her adult brother, hoping he might be the key to saving the shop. But as Maisie learns about her family’s past from Calum, she starts to rethink everything she’s ever known. Maisie must decide not only if saving her family’s art shop is worth it, but if she can forgive her parents for the mistakes they've made.
Add it on Goodreads HERE.
Praise for THE ART OF RUNNING AWAY:
“A gentle exploration of pain, love, and acceptance.” - Kirkus Reviews
“With many emotional scenes involving themes of identity, family, passion, and forgiveness, Kleckner’s charming debut features a mature young heroine that readers will enjoy following as she manages familial conflict and resolution.” - Booklist
“Maisie’s voice is pitch perfect as she navigates triumphs and mishaps and learns how to be an ally to her family over the course of one unforgettable summer abroad. Accessible and heartfelt, Kleckner has created a story with a compelling sibling relationship and engaging, memorable characters.” - A.J. Sass, author of Ana on the Edge
“The Art of Running Away is a beautiful reminder that life happens in gray areas and that even if rifts can’t be healed instantly, it doesn’t mean you should ever stop trying. Sabrina Kleckner, you’ve run away with my heart!” - Jason June, author of Jay’s Gay Agenda
"The Art of Running Away made my eyes sparkle with laughter one moment, tears the next. This spirited story of family secrets and self-discovery is not to be missed.” - Lisa Jenn Bigelow, author of Drum Roll Please and Hazel’s Theory of Evolution
“With pitch-perfect humor and heart, Kleckner explores the dynamics of friendship and family: the mess and pain coupled with hope and love. This story is a hug in book form.” - Adrianna Cuevas, author of The Total Eclipse of Nestor Lopez and Cuba in My Pocket
“A captivating romp, featuring quirky, believably flawed characters, with an affecting family drama at its center.” - Lisa Bunker, author of Zenobia July
“Sabrina Kleckner has woven a stunning story about family—both the one you’re born into, and the one you find along the way—what is means to be an artist, and the power of acceptance. Kleckner brilliantly uses her main character Maisie to create beautiful conversations about identity, allyship, and choosing your own path in life in a brilliant and accessible way. I laughed until I cried and then I laughed some more. This book sparks so much joy!” - Jacob Demlow, creator of A Very Queer Book Club
“This book captured my heart and ran away with it…After the year we’ve had, The Art of Running Away is the comfort book the world needs.” - Gavin Hetherington, creator of How to Train Your Gavin
Character Art:
Art by @pamelandraws
Art by @pamelandraws
Art by @kidovna
Art by @caitlynpatten