The Dinner That Broke Us

One dinner can break a family-or bring them back together.
Thanksgiving used to mean laughter and stories in the Monroe house. But this year, Ellis dreads the holiday: his sister isn't coming home, his parents are barely speaking, and the family table feels emptier than ever.

When one sharp comment cracks the silence wide open, old secrets and new hurts come pouring out. Suddenly, Ellis must decide whether to keep holding his family together-or finally tell the truth he's been hiding.

With the help of a wise neighbor, a walk in the cold, and the comfort of his loyal pets, Ellis learns that real families aren't perfect-they're honest, messy, and worth fighting for.

The Dinner That Broke Us is a heartfelt, realistic fiction novel for middle schoolers ages 9-14 who love emotional stories about siblings, second chances, and the courage it takes to come home.
Perfect for fans of middle grade family drama, books about brothers and sisters, and Thanksgiving stories for kids.

If you've ever wished your family could find its way back-this unforgettable story is for you.