Hazel’s Theory of Evolution

Winner of the Lambda Literary Award!

The Thing About Jellyfish meets Raymie Nightingale in this tender middle grade novel from Lisa Jenn Bigelow, acclaimed author of Drum Roll, Please.

Hazel knows a lot about the world. That’s because when she’s not hanging with her best friend, taking care of her dog, or helping care for the goats on her family's farm, she loves reading through dusty encyclopedias.

But even Hazel doesn’t have answers for the questions awaiting her as she enters eighth grade. What if no one at her new school gets her, and she doesn't make any friends? What’s going to happen to one of her moms, who’s pregnant again after having two miscarriages? Why does everything have to change when life was already perfectly fine?

As Hazel struggles to cope, she’ll come to realize that sometimes you have to look within yourself—instead of the pages of a book—to find the answer to life’s most important questions.

A heartfelt story about the science of family, the evolution of friendship, and the courage to hope:

• A Heartfelt LGBTQ+ Family Story: Hazel has two moms and a baby sister on the way. But after two previous losses, her family is holding its breath—and Hazel is terrified to hope.
• Navigating Changing Friendships: Starting eighth grade at a new school, Hazel has to figure out who she is without her best friend by her side.
• Found Family and Support: An unexpected friendship with Carina, a transgender girl, and Yosh, a boy who uses a wheelchair, shows Hazel she doesn't have to face her fears alone.
• Dealing with Anxiety: A gentle and honest story that explores what it feels like when life changes too fast and celebrates the courage it takes to embrace the unknown.

Praise for Drum Roll, Please: “Bigelow artfully captures the complexity of middle-school relationships and, with a gentle hand, delivers a mighty message to turn up the volume on your inner drumbeat.” - Ami Polonsky, author of Gracefully Grayson and Threads

“Both fun and substantial, readable and empowering, this novel is a master class in balancing real issues with a light-hearted tone. Bigelow’s compassionate take on the classic middle school topics of family, friendship, and first romance hits all the right notes. Highly recommended.” - School Library Journal (starred review)

“In a story about growing pains, turning points, and self-discovery, Bigelow shows an equally clear understanding of the dynamics of young adolescent emotions. Bigelow has a graceful and genuine touch as her protagonist processes new experiences and navigates changes in friendships and family.” - Publishers Weekly (starred review)

“Warm and memorable.” - Kirkus Reviews

“Bigelow celebrates intersectional diversity with her cast of well-drawn characters. Through a relatable first-person narrative, she also addresses universal conflicts adolescents face while paying tribute to their individuality.” - Publishers Weekly

“This vivid first-person narrative revolves around the well-drawn main character. Bigelow portrays many characters with empathy and skill. A heartfelt novel of family, friends, and change.” - ALA Booklist (starred review)

"Readers will find [Hazel's] sensitive, reflective nature heartening." - School Library Journal