Sun Keep Rising

When rent increases put a teen mom at risk of losing her home, she resorts to a dangerous game to keep her family afloat. But all games have consequences, and this isn't one she can afford to lose. A gripping story about race, income instability, and the strength it takes to survive from a critically acclaimed author.

"Kristen R. Lee is a miraculous story weaver"-Mahogany L. Browne, author of Vinyl Moon

B’onca always knew how to get by. And then her daughter is born. She wouldn’t trade Mia for anything, but there is never enough cash to go around. When their gentrifying Memphis neighborhood results in higher prices and then an eviction notice, B’onca’s already fragile world spirals. Desperate to make things right, B’onca forges a risky plan to help pay the bills. But one wrong move could cost B’onca—and her family—everything.

From the celebrated author of Required Reading for the Disenfranchised Freshman comes a compelling story about a teen mom navigating income disparity and racial inequality, and defying challenges to protect those she loves.

Reseñas de la Crítica

Praise for Required Reading for the Disenfranchised Freshman:

“A work of sass and more than a hint of Black girl magic.” –Booklist

“Moving and authentic.” –Kirkus Review

"Lee’s thoughtful debut, a timely, quickly paced look at the trauma Black students often face in white institutions, brings a refreshingly vulnerable honesty to this narrative centering one Black collegiate transition.” –Publishers Weekly

Impressive Storytelling

Nuanced depiction of the life of low income Black American teens. Lee has crafted a realistic tale of very grave circumstances, yet managed to deliver a story that is refreshingly hopeful due to the roles of friends, family and community. Her lens is an important one. I can’t wait to read what she writes next.