Shouting at the Rain by Lynda Mullaly Hunt delivers a heartfelt coming-of-age story rich with themes of friendship and family. Critics appreciate its vivid portrayal of a young girl's emotional journey and the supportive community around her. However, some find the plot predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, the novel is praised for its relatable characters and uplifting message.

Fans of Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s Shouting at the Rain will likely enjoy stories that explore themes of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery. Readers who appreciated Wonder by R. J. Palacio or Fish in a Tree by the same author will find similar emotional depth and compelling character development.

Shouting at the Rain by Lynda Mullaly Hunt is a contemporary middle-grade novel about seventh grader Delsie McHill, who grapples with her mother's abandonment while forming a friendship with Ronan Gale, a troubled newcomer in Cape Cod. The story explores themes of friendship, family, emotional complexity, and changing perspectives. The book references addiction.

Emotional / Inspirational / Heartwarming / Bittersweet / Contemplative

**Delsie McHill**  
A young girl living in Cape Cod with her grandmother, struggling with feelings of abandonment after being left by her mother. As the protagonist, she learns about friendship, family, and emotional maturity.  

**Ronan Gale**  
A boy who becomes friends with Delsie and shares a similar experience of being abandoned by his mother. He is initially misunderstood by others but is shown to be kind and brave.  

**Grammy (Bridget)**  
Delsie's grandmother, who raised her after her mother left. She is a strong-willed woman coming to terms with personal losses while providing love and support to Delsie.  

**The Laskos**  
Delsie's next-door neighbors, consisting of Henry, Esme, and their daughter Ruby, who care for Delsie like family members, offering her love and guidance.  

**Olive**  
Delsie's grumpy neighbor who initially seems harsh but gradually reveals her grief and emotional complexity, showing she is misunderstood rather than unkind.  

**Brandy Fiester**  
A seasonal visitor to Cape Cod and a friend of Delsie, who undergoes changes and shifts her interests, impacting her friendship with Delsie.  

**Tressa**  
The primary antagonist and bully, who looks down on Delsie and often acts cruelly, yet shows hints of more complex emotions.  

**Gusty Gale**  
Ronan's father, who initially appears distant but is revealed to be a caring, if gruff, parent as he adjusts to life with his son.  

**Aimee and Michael**  
School friends of Delsie who appear in a summer play and represent true friendship by standing up for her against bullies.

**Saucepan Lynn**  
Owner of a local restaurant known for her gruff demeanor and tendency to encourage customers to participate in their own meal preparation.  

**Melissa "Mellie" McHill**  
Delsie's mother, whose absence profoundly influences Delsie's life. Her struggles with addiction are recounted through stories, impacting the experiences of both Delsie and Grammy.

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Chapters 1-10

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Chapters 11-20

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Chapters 21-30

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Chapters 31-40

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Chapters 41-49

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Lynda Mullaly Hunt

Middle grade

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