A winter move to New York City was never part of eleven-year-old Lilly's dreams. Uprooted from her small-town life, her friends, and even her beloved grandmother, Lilly must face the big city's towering buildings, busy streets, and chilly new world-all while turning twelve in a place that feels nothing like home.
But everything changes the day she meets Robyn, a frail homeless woman in Central Park. For the first time, Lilly sees the harsh reality of life on the streets and begins to understand how fragile-and unfair-life can be. Determined to help, Lilly sparks a movement at her new school with the support of her kind teacher and new friends. Together, they organize food drives and aid for those most in need-proving that even the youngest voices can inspire change.
Amid snow-filled days, big-city challenges, and bittersweet discoveries, Lilly learns that compassion is stronger than fear and that the smallest acts of kindness can warm even the coldest winter. This heartwarming coming-of-age story reminds readers that true courage often begins with empathy.
Perfect for readers ages 9-12, The Longest Winter in NYC is a moving tale about friendship, resilience, and finding hope in unexpected places. Whether you're a young reader discovering the power of helping others or a parent seeking meaningful stories to share, this book will inspire you to believe in the difference one person can make.