And We're Off

In this witty coming-of-age novel, a teenager’s wild European summer adventure, full of art, independence, and exploration, is interrupted when her mother decides to join the trip.

“Deftly mixes humor and tenderness. . . . This funny, whimsical tome isn't easy to put down once you start.”—Rolling Stone

“A winsome, hilarious tale about losing the map and finding a better way to a happy ending. I loved it!”—Jennifer Weiner, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Next Best Thing

Seventeen-year-old Nora Holmes is an artist, a painter from the moment she could hold a brush. She inherited the skill from her grandfather Robert, who’s always nurtured Nora’s talent and encouraged her to follow her passion. Still, Nora is shocked and elated when Robert offers her a gift: an all-expenses-paid summer trip to Europe to immerse herself in the craft and to study history’s most famous artists. The only catch? Nora has to create an original piece of artwork at every stop and send it back to her grandfather. It’s a no-brainer: Nora is in!

Unfortunately, Nora’s mother, Alice, is less than thrilled about the trip. She worries about what the future holds for her young, idealistic daughter—and her opinions haven’t gone unnoticed. Nora couldn’t feel more unsupported by her mother, and in the weeks leading up to the trip, the women are as disconnected as they’ve ever been. But seconds after saying good–bye to Alice at the airport terminal, Nora hears a voice call out: “Wait! Stop! I’m coming with you!”

And . . . they’re off.