Backyard Breaths

A Young Adult Novel About Anxiety, Dogs, and Finding Calm

De: S.L. Carter

Narrado por: Virtual Voice

Peace and Paws

For anyone who has ever felt invisible, overwhelmed, or left behind, Backyard Breaths is a moving young adult novel that reminds us healing can be found in the quietest places—and sometimes, through the eyes of a dog.

Sam has always felt like the forgotten one. With sisters much older and parents who mean well but don’t quite see her, she grows up carrying small worries that slowly grow louder. At school, she struggles to speak up, afraid of stumbling or being misunderstood. At home, she retreats to the backyard, where her loyal black lab Pep waits in the fading light of each day.

Pep isn’t just a dog—she’s Sam’s anchor. In the rhythm of Pep’s breathing, the warmth of her fur, and the steady companionship she gives without judgment, Sam discovers a language for what she’s been feeling: anxiety. Through afternoons spent in the grass, late-night vet visits, and the bittersweet challenges of caring for an aging dog, Sam learns to navigate the fears that once left her paralyzed.

As Sam’s world slowly expands—through shelter volunteering, unexpected friendship, and the realization that being seen doesn’t require perfection—she begins to understand that anxiety is not an enemy to defeat, but a companion to live alongside.

Heartfelt, lyrical, and deeply relatable, Backyard Breaths captures the raw reality of growing up with anxiety while offering hope and comfort to readers who may be searching for their own calm. Perfect for fans of Nina LaCour, Emery Lord, and readers of contemporary YA novels about mental health, identity, and the healing bond between humans and animals.

Why You’ll Love This Book:

• A powerful and tender YA novel about anxiety and mental health that speaks directly to teens and young adults.
• A heartfelt dog story that explores the bond between girl and pet with honesty and depth.
• A quiet, reflective voice that resonates with readers who love books about self-discovery, family, and emotional growth.
• Perfect for readers of YA realistic fiction, contemporary coming-of-age stories, and anyone who finds solace in the simple joy of being with a dog.