Congratulations to author Linda Oatan High and Red Chair Press on the release of Somebody's Someone, a new work of juvenile fiction for readers ages 10 - 14 that blends humor, love, and friendship in the story of a twelve-year-old with a mentally ill parent.
"An uplifting narrative journey." ~Kirkus Reviews
BONUS: Get a free preview of a sample chapter of Somebody's Someone and other books from Red Chair Press!
Somebody's Someone
NEW RELEASE: March 4, 2025Author: Linda Oatman High
Illustrator: Yayira Dzamesi
Genre: Juvenile Fiction
Available in hardcover, audiobook, and e-book from $9.99
12-year-old Ruby Bean has become an Accidental Expert on Missing Mothers. When Ruthie, her mother goes missing again due to mental illness and addiction, Ruby and her aunt leap into action to search for Ruthie.
A jewelry store robbery and unexpected kindness from the victim bring more twists to the journey. From Georgia to Washington to New York City Ruby, discovers that sometimes even the worst events can bring the best surprises into one’s life.
Note: Nearly 1 in 5 American adults will have a diagnosable mental health condition in any given year. 46 percent of Americans will meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental health condition sometime in their life, and half of those people will develop conditions by the age of 14.
Praise & Recognition for Somebody's Someone
1st Place Winner, Children & YA Writing, Bookshelf Awards
"Heart-wrenching and profoundly moving." ~Bookshelf Review
"A real treat for young readers, blending humor, love and friendship." ~Barbara Binns, award-winning author of Courage
"A must read to understand the effects of mental illness on all family members." ~Linda Appleman Shapiro, psychotherapist and author of She's Not Herself
"A gem! A superbly written character-led novel for 10-14 year olds." ~The Wishing Shelf Awards
"A compassionate novel exploring the lifeforce of a child's love." ~Independent Book Review
"A beautifully illustrated, soul-stirring story." ~The Praries Book Review
"A tender exploration of the complexities of familial bonds and the enduring nature of hope" ~Literary Titan
About the Author
Linda Oatman High is an award-winning author of books for children and teens. She also teaches writing workshops. Linda holds an MFA in Writing from Vermont College. Learn more at lindahigh.com.
About the Illustrator
Yai Dzamesi is an illustrator & storyteller who is passionate about creating stories that dive deep and push hard. Her work is marked by warm hues that both comfort and challenge readers. Learn more at yayiradzamesi.com.
About the Publisher
One Elm Books is an imprint of Red Chair Press, an indie press committed to learning and literacy (and laughter!). Founded in 2009, Red Chair Press has been dedicated to publishing series to engage children in stories that provide models for strong character and good behavior. By working with only the highest-quality artists from around the world, Red Chair Press ensures that their books will appeal to a wide range of readers. Learn more at RedChairPress.com, and be sure to follow them online:
