Trusting True North

Months of lockdown during a virus outbreak have left True North Vincent feeling worn down. Her mother is stranded across the border in Canada, and her father spends long hours caring for patients as a nurse. True has taken on the job of keeping the household safe, especially her grandmother and her younger brother Georgie, whose asthma leaves him more exposed to the illness. She also misses the days when her older sister Rose was her friend rather than someone absorbed in a phone.

Maps have always been a source of comfort for True, a talent she picked up from her mom. To keep Georgie busy, she sketches an elaborate treasure hunt that leads through the woods behind their home. Their search turns up a litter of newborn kittens in an abandoned barn. The smallest one is weak and has been rejected by its mother, so True names her Teacup, drawing on her own experience of missing a mother when she needs one most. She also crosses paths with Kyler, who wants to look after the kittens, and she starts to wonder whether he is really the bully people say he is.

When both Teacup and Kyler fall ill, True fears she cannot help them all on her own. With her homemade remedies running out, she asks for help and discovers that her family cares about her and is ready to guide and support her through the difficulties that the virus and everyday life bring.