Join Lily and Noah on an unforgettable journey of friendship, courage, and self-discovery in "The Year We Found Ourselves," a heartwarming collection of five thrilling short stories for kids aged 8-12. When quiet, hardworking Lily Parker and popular, pressured Noah Bennett are paired for a community service project to transform a neglected park, they couldn't be more different. But as they tackle challenges together-from cleaning up litter to creating an inspiring art installation-they uncover shared passions and learn to see the world through each other's eyes. Through their adventures, Lily discovers her artistic voice, while Noah embraces his love for environmental science, defying his family's expectations. Together, they confront social issues, navigate misunderstandings, and rally their community to make a lasting impact. Packed with relatable characters, meaningful lessons, and moments of triumph, this book celebrates resilience, the power of friendship, and the courage to be true to oneself. Perfect for young readers who love stories of teamwork, personal growth, and making a difference, "The Year We Found Ourselves" will inspire kids to find their own strengths and embrace new beginnings.