The Gray, Chris Baron
The Gray, Chris Baron
List: $19.99 | Sale: $13.99
Club: $9.99

The Gray

Author: Chris Baron

Narrator: Caleb Summers

Unabridged: 6 hr 42 min

Format: Digital Audiobook Download

Publisher: Tantor Media

Published: 09/26/2023


Synopsis

The Gray is a sensitively told middle grade story from Chris Baron about living with anxiety and finding ways to cope.

It's been a tough year for Sasha—he's been bullied at his middle school and his anxiety, which he calls the Gray, is growing. Sasha's dad tells him to "toughen up"—and he does, but with unfortunate, hurtful results. His parents and therapist agree that a summer in the country with his aunt might be the best medicine, but it's the last place he wants to be. He'll be away from his best friend, video games, and stuck in the house that reminds him of his beloved uncle who died two years earlier.

His aunt is supportive, and there are lots of places to explore, and even some potential new friends. When Sasha is introduced at a local ranch to a horse coincidentally—incredibly—nicknamed the Gray, he feels he's found a kindred spirit.

But his own Gray is ever-present. When one of his new friends disappears, Sasha discovers that the country is wilder and more mysterious than he imagined. He tries to muster enough courage to help in the search . . . but will the Gray hold him back?

About Chris Baron

Chris Baron is a professor of English at San Diego City College. He's also the author of the (adult) poetry collection, Lantern Tree, which was published as part of a poetry anthology, Under the Broom Tree, winner of the San Diego Book Award. He lives in San Diego, California, with his wife and their three children. All of Me is his first novel.


Reviews

Goodreads review by Ben

The Gray bravely addresses the mental health topic of generalized anxiety and panic attacks, along with bullying, screen time, and video games. Importantly, it showcases the power of kindness, acceptance, and that change can be a gradual process. I appreciate this frank and honest acknowledgement th......more

Goodreads review by Katie

Absolutely loved this one. As a 4/5th grade teacher, I’ve seen an increase in the number of students with anxiety. With the help of characters experiencing anxiety in middle grade novels, my students are becoming more wiling to discuss their experiences, and I’m so grateful to have Sasha and his “gr......more

Goodreads review by Meg

The Gray is a beautiful story about a young boy suffering from severe anxiety. This book will help readers understand what anxiety can be like and also provide strategies for kids who struggle and also for family and friends of people who suffer from anxiety. This book also shows the power of discon......more