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Haven
IBPA BOOK AWARD - Silver Medal Winner * BEST CHILDREN'S BOOK, BEST PRETEEN BOOK, & BEST REALISTIC CHILDREN'S FICTION - Firebird Book Award * ERIC HOFFER BOOK AWARD FINALIST
“…a story of hope, resilience, and the power of kindness.” – Laurie Buchanan, award-winning author
“This heartfelt, realistic novel . . . handles a serious topic with care.” – Kirkus Review
Taking only what they can quickly pack, 11-year-old Mardella Houston and her mom flee from an abusive home to start a fresh life in the small town of Haven, Minnesota. But Mardella’s sure she’s to blame—if only she hadn’t dialed 911, none of this would be happening. Her dad wouldn’t be in jail, her mom would still have her old job, Mardella would still have friends, and they wouldn’t be starting over.
Fortunately, her mom’s new job at Rest Haven Senior Living gives them somewhere to live—but the over-age-65 residence is a boring, run-down, funny smelling place. Even so, Mardella volunteers to make their new home as cheerful as possible. Through these colorful projects, she is surprised that she soon has new friends—of all ages. But when her father gets out of jail, determined to find them, Mardella realizes she’s made another terrible mistake—one that might destroy their chance at happiness. This time it’s up to her to fix everything and keep her mom and new friends safe.
This moving story for middle-grade readers (and up!) sensitively addresses a tough topic through the eyes of a preteen. It’s a story about misplaced guilt, intergenerational friendships, and an unlikely found family as Mardella discovers her inner strength and t he true meaning of home .
“…a story of hope, resilience, and the power of kindness.” – Laurie Buchanan, award-winning author
“This heartfelt, realistic novel . . . handles a serious topic with care.” – Kirkus Review
Taking only what they can quickly pack, 11-year-old Mardella Houston and her mom flee from an abusive home to start a fresh life in the small town of Haven, Minnesota. But Mardella’s sure she’s to blame—if only she hadn’t dialed 911, none of this would be happening. Her dad wouldn’t be in jail, her mom would still have her old job, Mardella would still have friends, and they wouldn’t be starting over.
Fortunately, her mom’s new job at Rest Haven Senior Living gives them somewhere to live—but the over-age-65 residence is a boring, run-down, funny smelling place. Even so, Mardella volunteers to make their new home as cheerful as possible. Through these colorful projects, she is surprised that she soon has new friends—of all ages. But when her father gets out of jail, determined to find them, Mardella realizes she’s made another terrible mistake—one that might destroy their chance at happiness. This time it’s up to her to fix everything and keep her mom and new friends safe.
This moving story for middle-grade readers (and up!) sensitively addresses a tough topic through the eyes of a preteen. It’s a story about misplaced guilt, intergenerational friendships, and an unlikely found family as Mardella discovers her inner strength and t he true meaning of home .
- GenresMiddle GradeYoung Adult
123 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2024
3 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Valerie Biel
10 books155 followersValerie Biel's love for travel and insatiable curiosity inspires her storytelling. Her award-winning Circle of Nine series is set partially in Ireland where she was inspired by the ancient stone circles which dot the countryside. Beltany, an actual stone circle in County Donegal, Ireland, plays an important part in this novel. "There's something eerie and beautiful about these circles which rise up out of the greenest grass you've ever seen. Who built them? Why did they build them? If that's not enough to start a story, nothing is." Her other books include HAVEN, a middle-grade novel that sensitively handles the tough topic of domestic abuse through the eyes of an 11-year-old, and BEYOND THE CEMETERY GATE, a mystery suspense novel.
She holds a degree in Journalism (Public Relations/Broadcast News) and Political Science from the University of Wisconsin and has spent more than 25 years working in the public relations field. She edits manuscripts and develops and implements marketing & publicity plans for other authors via her agency Lost Lake Press. She often teaches about writing topics at conferences, libraries, and schools. She also creates a monthly Writers’ Forum column with the latest news from the publishing industry and writing world on Substack publication Reading, Writing, & Roaming. She sits on the board of The World Orphan Fund, a charity founded by her husband RJ Johnson in 2010 that assists children's homes in countries around the globe. She lives on a (tiny) piece of her family's century old farm in Wisconsin, but regularly dreams of finding the perfect cottage on the Irish coast where she could write and write.
To keep up with what's happening with her books or to enjoy some fun 'stuff' for readers (like a awesome playlists), go to her website at www.ValerieBiel.com. For more frequent updates, "Like" her author Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ValerieBielBooks or subscribe to her blog at https://readingwritingandroaming.subs....
She holds a degree in Journalism (Public Relations/Broadcast News) and Political Science from the University of Wisconsin and has spent more than 25 years working in the public relations field. She edits manuscripts and develops and implements marketing & publicity plans for other authors via her agency Lost Lake Press. She often teaches about writing topics at conferences, libraries, and schools. She also creates a monthly Writers’ Forum column with the latest news from the publishing industry and writing world on Substack publication Reading, Writing, & Roaming. She sits on the board of The World Orphan Fund, a charity founded by her husband RJ Johnson in 2010 that assists children's homes in countries around the globe. She lives on a (tiny) piece of her family's century old farm in Wisconsin, but regularly dreams of finding the perfect cottage on the Irish coast where she could write and write.
To keep up with what's happening with her books or to enjoy some fun 'stuff' for readers (like a awesome playlists), go to her website at www.ValerieBiel.com. For more frequent updates, "Like" her author Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ValerieBielBooks or subscribe to her blog at https://readingwritingandroaming.subs....
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September 26, 2024
Various dictionaries define a haven as being a place of safety or refuge, where someone can feel loved and be themselves. Alternatively, it may also be what we think of when describing the essence of that special place we call Home.
“Haven,” by Valerie Biel, is a novel for middle-grade readers. The central character is eleven-year-old Mardella Houston, who, along with her mom, Louisa, will be living in the manager’s apartment at Rest Haven Senior Living in Haven, Minnesota. The Houstons hurriedly left their old town in Illinois for Louisa’s new job, leaving behind a difficult past.
Mardella’s mom, Louisa experienced physical abuse at the hands of her husband, Martin, who had descended into a life of drug and alcohol abuse, growing unchecked anger, and crime. Mardella had also been the sometime target of his substance-amplified rage. A final violent episode prompted Mardella to call 911 for help. The police found drugs in the home, arrested and jailed Martin, and accused Louisa as well, but released her after realizing she was not involved. However, the neighbors were angry at having this incident in their community, told their children to end their friendships with Mardella, and Louisa lost her job. As a result, mother and daughter made their move to Minnesota where they hoped to make a fresh start and feel safe.
Mardella, despite feeling relief at having her father out of her and her mother’s lives, feels guilty for making the 911 call that saved them, and for upending everything that was familiar. She feels that her mother blames her for setting off those changes.
When Mardella and Louisa arrive at the building where they will live, Mardella is depressed by its drab, sad-looking exterior. Everything in and outside of the facility is painted or carpeted in some neutral shade of beige to brown. When Mardella comments on the dreary site, her mother gives her the assignment of developing a plan to brighten up and refresh the surroundings.
Gradually Mardella and Louisa meet and form relationships with the senior adults who live in the building, and their fellow staff members, including the kindly maintenance man and the friendly cook who is assisted during school vacations by her niece, Ginger, a teen just a few years older than Mardella.
How Mardella executes her plans for improvements and develops bonds with the residents and forms a friendship with Ginger and others forms the well-constructed narrative of the novel. The transformation of the building using colorful paintings and plantings is a theme that runs through the action. The chapters have clever color-related names that reflect the ups and downs of the story as it unfolds.
Throughout the novel, author Biel sensitively addresses how children and teens (as well as adults) are affected by the trauma of experiencing or witnessing domestic violence. She also looks at the insecurities that influence their behavior, including lack of self-confidence, fear of judgment or rejection by their peers, doubts or discomfort about their appearance, and feeling a misplaced sense of responsibility for developments in life that are beyond their control. The multiple issues that affect Mardella and the others could lead to openings for discussions of these important subjects between parents and children.
Biel also focuses on the value and benefits of intergenerational friendships and shows how younger and older people can form bonds that benefit both. In our present time, where there are so many age groups superficially defined by labels, this is a welcome and important point of view. For the young readers, this book will reach, it can help to demystify aging and discourage attitudes that harden into ageism.
The vocabulary level feels just right for readers in the middle grades, and when dialogue occurs, it sounds natural and believable. In addition to effective writing, chapter structure, and theme, “Haven” is attractively and appropriately illustrated with just enough full-color drawings placed to punctuate and support key moments in the action.
The overall design with its friendly, appealing typeface adds to the book’s attractiveness as well. It looks neither too young for the intended readers nor too old to be intimidating. All in all, this is a book that many parents, grandparents, and others will want to offer to the young people in their lives.
“Haven,” by Valerie Biel, is a novel for middle-grade readers. The central character is eleven-year-old Mardella Houston, who, along with her mom, Louisa, will be living in the manager’s apartment at Rest Haven Senior Living in Haven, Minnesota. The Houstons hurriedly left their old town in Illinois for Louisa’s new job, leaving behind a difficult past.
Mardella’s mom, Louisa experienced physical abuse at the hands of her husband, Martin, who had descended into a life of drug and alcohol abuse, growing unchecked anger, and crime. Mardella had also been the sometime target of his substance-amplified rage. A final violent episode prompted Mardella to call 911 for help. The police found drugs in the home, arrested and jailed Martin, and accused Louisa as well, but released her after realizing she was not involved. However, the neighbors were angry at having this incident in their community, told their children to end their friendships with Mardella, and Louisa lost her job. As a result, mother and daughter made their move to Minnesota where they hoped to make a fresh start and feel safe.
Mardella, despite feeling relief at having her father out of her and her mother’s lives, feels guilty for making the 911 call that saved them, and for upending everything that was familiar. She feels that her mother blames her for setting off those changes.
When Mardella and Louisa arrive at the building where they will live, Mardella is depressed by its drab, sad-looking exterior. Everything in and outside of the facility is painted or carpeted in some neutral shade of beige to brown. When Mardella comments on the dreary site, her mother gives her the assignment of developing a plan to brighten up and refresh the surroundings.
Gradually Mardella and Louisa meet and form relationships with the senior adults who live in the building, and their fellow staff members, including the kindly maintenance man and the friendly cook who is assisted during school vacations by her niece, Ginger, a teen just a few years older than Mardella.
How Mardella executes her plans for improvements and develops bonds with the residents and forms a friendship with Ginger and others forms the well-constructed narrative of the novel. The transformation of the building using colorful paintings and plantings is a theme that runs through the action. The chapters have clever color-related names that reflect the ups and downs of the story as it unfolds.
Throughout the novel, author Biel sensitively addresses how children and teens (as well as adults) are affected by the trauma of experiencing or witnessing domestic violence. She also looks at the insecurities that influence their behavior, including lack of self-confidence, fear of judgment or rejection by their peers, doubts or discomfort about their appearance, and feeling a misplaced sense of responsibility for developments in life that are beyond their control. The multiple issues that affect Mardella and the others could lead to openings for discussions of these important subjects between parents and children.
Biel also focuses on the value and benefits of intergenerational friendships and shows how younger and older people can form bonds that benefit both. In our present time, where there are so many age groups superficially defined by labels, this is a welcome and important point of view. For the young readers, this book will reach, it can help to demystify aging and discourage attitudes that harden into ageism.
The vocabulary level feels just right for readers in the middle grades, and when dialogue occurs, it sounds natural and believable. In addition to effective writing, chapter structure, and theme, “Haven” is attractively and appropriately illustrated with just enough full-color drawings placed to punctuate and support key moments in the action.
The overall design with its friendly, appealing typeface adds to the book’s attractiveness as well. It looks neither too young for the intended readers nor too old to be intimidating. All in all, this is a book that many parents, grandparents, and others will want to offer to the young people in their lives.
Read
October 30, 2024Valerie Biel ’90
Author
From the author:
Taking only what they can quickly pack, 11-year-old Mardella Houston and her mom secretly move away from her abusive, drug-dealing father to start a fresh life in the one-stoplight town of Haven, Minnesota. But Mardella’s sure she’s to blame—if only she hadn’t dialed 911, none of this would be happening. Her dad wouldn’t be in jail, her mom would still have her old job, Mardella would still have friends, and they wouldn’t be starting over.
She knows she should be grateful that her mom’s new job at Rest Haven Senior Living gives them a place to live—but the over-age-65 residence is a boring, run-down, funny smelling place. Even so, Mardella volunteers to make their new home as cheerful as possible. Through these colorful projects, she is surprised that she soon has new friends—of all ages. But when her father gets out of jail, angry and determined to find them, Mardella realizes she’s made another terrible mistake—one that might destroy her chance at a new, happy life. This time it’s up to her to fix everything and keep her mom and new friends safe.
This moving middle grade novel sensitively addresses a tough topic through the eyes of a preteen. It’s a story about misplaced guilt, intergenerational friendships, and an unlikely found family as Mardella discovers her inner strength and the true meaning of home.
Author
From the author:
Taking only what they can quickly pack, 11-year-old Mardella Houston and her mom secretly move away from her abusive, drug-dealing father to start a fresh life in the one-stoplight town of Haven, Minnesota. But Mardella’s sure she’s to blame—if only she hadn’t dialed 911, none of this would be happening. Her dad wouldn’t be in jail, her mom would still have her old job, Mardella would still have friends, and they wouldn’t be starting over.
She knows she should be grateful that her mom’s new job at Rest Haven Senior Living gives them a place to live—but the over-age-65 residence is a boring, run-down, funny smelling place. Even so, Mardella volunteers to make their new home as cheerful as possible. Through these colorful projects, she is surprised that she soon has new friends—of all ages. But when her father gets out of jail, angry and determined to find them, Mardella realizes she’s made another terrible mistake—one that might destroy her chance at a new, happy life. This time it’s up to her to fix everything and keep her mom and new friends safe.
This moving middle grade novel sensitively addresses a tough topic through the eyes of a preteen. It’s a story about misplaced guilt, intergenerational friendships, and an unlikely found family as Mardella discovers her inner strength and the true meaning of home.
Read
October 8, 2024HAVEN is a sweet story about finding safety, strength, and a new home among the people you least expect.
Mardella is used to hiding. She's done it for years, whenever her dad flew into a rage. Now she and her mom are hiding together, running away to a live-in job at an old-folks home. After what they've been through, Mardella is hoping for someplace bright and cherry, but Rest Haven Senior Living is drab, run-down, and boring, boring, boring. At least the elderly residents are colorful! They're kind and welcoming, too. So when Mom puts her in charge of "all things bright and beautiful," Mardella sets about sprucing the place up for everyone. Soon the residents are pitching in, too, and she even recruits Ginger to help, a prickly older girl with a secret heart for art. But when the past catches up with her, it will take all Mardella's newfound strength to protect herself, her friends, and the home they've created together.
In HAVEN, seasoned author Valerie Biel deals gently with the subject of domestic violence through characters young readers will root for and a story that will keep them turning pages to the end!
Mardella is used to hiding. She's done it for years, whenever her dad flew into a rage. Now she and her mom are hiding together, running away to a live-in job at an old-folks home. After what they've been through, Mardella is hoping for someplace bright and cherry, but Rest Haven Senior Living is drab, run-down, and boring, boring, boring. At least the elderly residents are colorful! They're kind and welcoming, too. So when Mom puts her in charge of "all things bright and beautiful," Mardella sets about sprucing the place up for everyone. Soon the residents are pitching in, too, and she even recruits Ginger to help, a prickly older girl with a secret heart for art. But when the past catches up with her, it will take all Mardella's newfound strength to protect herself, her friends, and the home they've created together.
In HAVEN, seasoned author Valerie Biel deals gently with the subject of domestic violence through characters young readers will root for and a story that will keep them turning pages to the end!
October 8, 2024
Valerie Biel’s first Middle-Grade fiction book surely won’t be her last. Eleven-year-old Mardella Houston and her mother are on the run from an abusive father and husband in Illinois to make a fresh start in Minnesota at rundown Rest Haven Senior Living. The two hope that the housing community will become their safe home. While Ms. Houston works as its new director, the artistic Mardella struggles with guilt over her father’s arrest and imprisonment. She distracts herself by brightening the place with splashes of color, learning that friends and support can come from unlikely sources. But will the girl be able to stop blaming herself whenever something goes wrong? The author skillfully weaves in “colorful” chapter titles with actions that track Mardella’s journey. Young readers will also enjoy the many metaphors and sensory images that help them bond with Mardella. Prepare for the surprising ending that will have readers turning pages nonstop.
November 7, 2024
Valerie Biel's Haven is a heart-warming middle-grade novel that effortlessly weaves together captivating storytelling with thought-provoking themes. Aimed at readers aged 8 to 12, this book stands out not only for its compelling narrative but also for its sensitive handling of complex topics, such as domestic violence.
In Haven, we meet the main character Mardella, who’s has been forced to flee her home due to an incident of violence in her home. We follow Mardella along as she tries to fit into her new town and get to know the residents of the senior living home where her mom works. We see Mardella grapple with feelings of guilt and doubt, grappling with the sadness of her parents’ relationship.
Along with elements of a mystery, Haven reinforces the old adage of “Home is where the heart is,” and highlights the fact that we are all doing the very best we can.
The book’s art is delightful and a really fun addition! Fans of books like Front Desk by Kelly Yang would love Haven. Put it on your to-read list now!
Note: due to its sensitive topic, your middle grade readers may need a heads up on the domestic violence content. A very lovely note about this is included by the author.
In Haven, we meet the main character Mardella, who’s has been forced to flee her home due to an incident of violence in her home. We follow Mardella along as she tries to fit into her new town and get to know the residents of the senior living home where her mom works. We see Mardella grapple with feelings of guilt and doubt, grappling with the sadness of her parents’ relationship.
Along with elements of a mystery, Haven reinforces the old adage of “Home is where the heart is,” and highlights the fact that we are all doing the very best we can.
The book’s art is delightful and a really fun addition! Fans of books like Front Desk by Kelly Yang would love Haven. Put it on your to-read list now!
Note: due to its sensitive topic, your middle grade readers may need a heads up on the domestic violence content. A very lovely note about this is included by the author.
February 28, 2025
Mardella is finally happy living at the Haven Rest Home, where her mom has a new job. Until she finds out that her dad is out of prison and looking for her and her mom.
November 5, 2024
I loved it
This sweet story is an opportunity for young people to glimpse something different then just a picture perfect family life that is still filled with love and friendship. I loved every moment of Mardella’s journey, and i think most people would find themselves identifying with her as she sees her own story through the anxious lens of misplaced self blame. This book humanizes a challenging circumstance that we might rather think of as statistics that dont affect our children in a way that is relevant and relatable to readers.
This sweet story is an opportunity for young people to glimpse something different then just a picture perfect family life that is still filled with love and friendship. I loved every moment of Mardella’s journey, and i think most people would find themselves identifying with her as she sees her own story through the anxious lens of misplaced self blame. This book humanizes a challenging circumstance that we might rather think of as statistics that dont affect our children in a way that is relevant and relatable to readers.
September 25, 2024
In this story centered around new beginnings, Valerie Biel tackles the tough topic of domestic violence through the eyes of 11 year old, Mardella. An appropriate amount of detail without becoming too dark allows the focus of the storyline to be that of forward progress and not lingering on the bad events that led them to their new home.
Reminiscent of Jodi Picoult, Biel boldly discusses the hard realities many people face but seldom share about. Haven demonstrates the range of emotions survivors often experience of anger, shame, embarrassment, fear, disbelief as they try to create a future after escaping the abuse. Trusting others is likely one of the most difficult tasks to face and Biel navigates this expertly with Mardella’s evaluation of each new character introduced to the story. Children can be incredibly discerning, relying on their intuition, unburdened by our mind trying to make sense of it all. Her new friends help to ensure her and her mother’s safety when their past threatens to drag them back into the dark world they left.
A story of hope and resilience in the aftermath of traumatic experiences. A perfect conversation starter by giving a relatable voice to those who struggle and specifically giving kids the permission to talk about their experiences with trusted people. A must read.
Reminiscent of Jodi Picoult, Biel boldly discusses the hard realities many people face but seldom share about. Haven demonstrates the range of emotions survivors often experience of anger, shame, embarrassment, fear, disbelief as they try to create a future after escaping the abuse. Trusting others is likely one of the most difficult tasks to face and Biel navigates this expertly with Mardella’s evaluation of each new character introduced to the story. Children can be incredibly discerning, relying on their intuition, unburdened by our mind trying to make sense of it all. Her new friends help to ensure her and her mother’s safety when their past threatens to drag them back into the dark world they left.
A story of hope and resilience in the aftermath of traumatic experiences. A perfect conversation starter by giving a relatable voice to those who struggle and specifically giving kids the permission to talk about their experiences with trusted people. A must read.
November 5, 2024
**disclaimer: I'm not a big reader of middle-grade or YA books, so I have little to compare this with, genre-wise**
Mardella Houston carries this story so easily that the book was a pleasure to read. She's spunky, determined, not afraid of the old folks at the home (well, not much), and she is a heroine you want to root for.
The topic of domestic violence was skillfully tailored to young readers by the author. She didn't sugarcoat the abuse, but she didn't gloss over it either like it was a minor annoyance. She understands that kids today are much more sophisticated and aware than we adults give them credit for, and she didn't talk down to them in this story.
Pacing was excellent, and Biel captured the voice of Mardella very well. Highly recommended as a topical book for today's younger readers.
Mardella Houston carries this story so easily that the book was a pleasure to read. She's spunky, determined, not afraid of the old folks at the home (well, not much), and she is a heroine you want to root for.
The topic of domestic violence was skillfully tailored to young readers by the author. She didn't sugarcoat the abuse, but she didn't gloss over it either like it was a minor annoyance. She understands that kids today are much more sophisticated and aware than we adults give them credit for, and she didn't talk down to them in this story.
Pacing was excellent, and Biel captured the voice of Mardella very well. Highly recommended as a topical book for today's younger readers.
October 11, 2024
A Story of Hope and Family
In her middle-grade novel HAVEN, Author Valerie Biel takes readers on a journey with eleven-year-old Mardella to escape domestic violence, which occurs all too often. Like so many young people caught up in difficult situations like this, Mardella blames herself for her dad being arrested and for her and her mom having to flee to a new place.
The two escape to a home for the elderly, where her mom will be the new director. On first look, the living center, with brown and tan paint everywhere, seems terribly boring. But as Mardella, with lots of help, works to bring color to the home through art, flowers, and bright highlights, she gets to know, trust, and make friends with the residents, staff, and their young relatives. Readers are made to feel like they’re right there with this intergenerational mix of people—sharing trust, talents, quirks, and the ups and downs of life.
In a delightful touch, Biel includes color words in the chapter titles to foreshadow and lead readers through what’s happening. Two of my favorites are Wild Blue Yonder, the chapter in which residents swarm Marbella when she returns with flowers galore to plant—everyone wanting to help; and Fantastic Fuchsia, the chapter in which Marbella and her new artist friend create a bright pick bubble hallway design inspired by circles made by a resident’s cane bopping the wall to stop a neighbor’s complaining.
This novel has excellent pacing, is easy to read and follow, and is definitely a page-turner. The endearing illustrations help bring the story to life.
HAVEN is a story of hope for anyone who has suffered abuse or has had to start over in a new place. It’s also a wonderful story of what makes up a family.
In her middle-grade novel HAVEN, Author Valerie Biel takes readers on a journey with eleven-year-old Mardella to escape domestic violence, which occurs all too often. Like so many young people caught up in difficult situations like this, Mardella blames herself for her dad being arrested and for her and her mom having to flee to a new place.
The two escape to a home for the elderly, where her mom will be the new director. On first look, the living center, with brown and tan paint everywhere, seems terribly boring. But as Mardella, with lots of help, works to bring color to the home through art, flowers, and bright highlights, she gets to know, trust, and make friends with the residents, staff, and their young relatives. Readers are made to feel like they’re right there with this intergenerational mix of people—sharing trust, talents, quirks, and the ups and downs of life.
In a delightful touch, Biel includes color words in the chapter titles to foreshadow and lead readers through what’s happening. Two of my favorites are Wild Blue Yonder, the chapter in which residents swarm Marbella when she returns with flowers galore to plant—everyone wanting to help; and Fantastic Fuchsia, the chapter in which Marbella and her new artist friend create a bright pick bubble hallway design inspired by circles made by a resident’s cane bopping the wall to stop a neighbor’s complaining.
This novel has excellent pacing, is easy to read and follow, and is definitely a page-turner. The endearing illustrations help bring the story to life.
HAVEN is a story of hope for anyone who has suffered abuse or has had to start over in a new place. It’s also a wonderful story of what makes up a family.
August 24, 2024
Valerie Biel’s “Haven” is a poignant and inspiring middle-grade novel that delves into the challenging subject of domestic violence, a pressing issue in our society, through the eyes of eleven-year-old Mardella Houston. The story begins with Mardella and her mother fleeing from an abusive, drug-dealing father to start anew in the small town of Haven, Minnesota. Mardella’s journey is one of misplaced guilt, resilience, and the discovery of inner strength.
Mardella’s mother, the new director at Rest Haven Senior Living Center director, assigns her daughter the unique role of ‘Undersecretary for all things bright and beautiful.’ This task, aimed at transforming the senior living center into a haven of positivity, becomes a central theme in the novel. Mardella’s efforts to bring cheer to the residents lead to unexpected and intriguing friendships, adding a layer of depth to the story and a sense of community that transcends generations.
Biel’s writing is not only intelligent and insightful but also unique in its narrative style, offering a perspicacious exploration of life's harsh realities. The novel’s value lies not only in its literary merit but also in its courageous examination of domestic violence. The narrative is further enriched by beautiful and evocative illustrations that enhance the reading experience.
“Haven” is a moving and well-executed work that sensitively addresses tough topics while highlighting the importance of community and the true meaning of home. Biel has crafted a heartwarming tale that will resonate with readers of all ages, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a story of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of kindness.
Mardella’s mother, the new director at Rest Haven Senior Living Center director, assigns her daughter the unique role of ‘Undersecretary for all things bright and beautiful.’ This task, aimed at transforming the senior living center into a haven of positivity, becomes a central theme in the novel. Mardella’s efforts to bring cheer to the residents lead to unexpected and intriguing friendships, adding a layer of depth to the story and a sense of community that transcends generations.
Biel’s writing is not only intelligent and insightful but also unique in its narrative style, offering a perspicacious exploration of life's harsh realities. The novel’s value lies not only in its literary merit but also in its courageous examination of domestic violence. The narrative is further enriched by beautiful and evocative illustrations that enhance the reading experience.
“Haven” is a moving and well-executed work that sensitively addresses tough topics while highlighting the importance of community and the true meaning of home. Biel has crafted a heartwarming tale that will resonate with readers of all ages, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a story of hope, resilience, and the transformative power of kindness.
September 9, 2024
Biel’s HAVEN sensitively addresses a subject not often touched on in middle grade fiction—domestic abuse. Every child deserves a safe home in which to grow and learn, love and laugh, but 11 year-old Mardella hasn’t had one for a while due to her father’s increasingly explosive temper. Desperate, she and her mom strike out on their own to a new state and a new home. Even there, hundreds of miles away from her jailed father, Mardella doesn’t feel safe. Memories are too vivid. It takes time and the comfort of friends young and old to make them start to fade. But then her father is released and hunts them down. Mardella and her mom are terrified. Only the help of friends and Mardella’s quick-thinking save the day. But their home and safe haven are now at risk. Will they be forced to leave the friends and home they’ve so recently discovered?
With domestic abuse steadily on the rise, this is an especially important story. Mardella is a likeable, realistic character who despite everything she’s experienced is hopeful and eager to build a new and brighter life. Readers will admire her, sympathize with her, and cheer for her. I highly recommend HAVEN.
Gayle Rosengren
With domestic abuse steadily on the rise, this is an especially important story. Mardella is a likeable, realistic character who despite everything she’s experienced is hopeful and eager to build a new and brighter life. Readers will admire her, sympathize with her, and cheer for her. I highly recommend HAVEN.
Gayle Rosengren
October 21, 2024
Haven, by Valerie Biel, is a middle-grade, family drama that is thrilling, sensitive, and sweet. In the novel, eleven-year-old Mardella and her mother move into an assisted living facility when her mother is hired as the director. Rest Haven is also a safe harbor for Mardella and her mother from Mardella’s abusive father. But the preteen blames herself for the move and despairs at having to live with old people, until she gets to know them. When her father comes looking, will Mardella lose everything? Biel does a remarkable job with Mardella—creating a likeable, flawed, and typical preteen who tries her best, but feels her actions have caused so many problems. With beautiful illustrations and chapter titles like “Angry Red,” “Foggy Gray,” and “Pastel Pink,” young readers will enjoy the book’s color theme and equally colorful characters. Adults will appreciate how Biel handles domestic violence delicately, but honestly. Haven is a must-read not only for children having to deal with domestic violence, but for anyone who loves an exciting and poignant tale.
November 5, 2024
In Haven, Mardella, an 11-year-old victim of an abusive father, tugged at my heart, and she will yours, too. Mardella deals with conflicting feelings: guilt because she was the one who called 911 which resulted in her father ending up in jail, but she’s also relieved not to worry about him beating her or her mother up. Mardella and her mother secretly move away and are making friends in the neighborhood and at Mom’s workplace, Rest Haven Senior Living, when the father gets out of jail. They fear he will search for them. Unfortunately, Mardella gave an old friend her address and the father forces that friend to tell him what it is. He confronts Mardella and her mom in the exciting climax.
Veteran author Valerie Biel has crafted a page-turner and a middle-grade novel that you’ll keep thinking about long after you’ve closed the book. Haven addresses a tough issue, one that sadly is prevalent among too many young people. This book is sure to raise important discussion questions.
Veteran author Valerie Biel has crafted a page-turner and a middle-grade novel that you’ll keep thinking about long after you’ve closed the book. Haven addresses a tough issue, one that sadly is prevalent among too many young people. This book is sure to raise important discussion questions.
March 4, 2025
When I first heard about the premise of this story, my first thought was that there needs to be more like this. Unfortunately, with so much domestic abuse and so many broken families surrounding us, these themes must be addressed even in fiction. Especially for young victims like Mardella in Haven.
Biel takes a tough topic without shying away and spins it into a heartwarming story. While Mardella tries to settle into a new “home” with new people, she’s living with guilt and shame and all the residual effects from growing up with an abusive father. The way this happens is both credible and uplifting. Threads of tension keep the story going—tension created by Mardella’s own mistakes and fears.
Meanwhile, Mardella keeps trying to move forward with her plans for brightening up their new place with the creativity of paint and flowers—colors reflected in the chapter headings. Newfound intergenerational friendships also brighten her days. Altogether, this story is a well-paced blend of both hardship and hope, of facing fears and finding family.
Biel takes a tough topic without shying away and spins it into a heartwarming story. While Mardella tries to settle into a new “home” with new people, she’s living with guilt and shame and all the residual effects from growing up with an abusive father. The way this happens is both credible and uplifting. Threads of tension keep the story going—tension created by Mardella’s own mistakes and fears.
Meanwhile, Mardella keeps trying to move forward with her plans for brightening up their new place with the creativity of paint and flowers—colors reflected in the chapter headings. Newfound intergenerational friendships also brighten her days. Altogether, this story is a well-paced blend of both hardship and hope, of facing fears and finding family.
September 20, 2024
Valerie Biel offers readers of all ages a compelling story about domestic abuse as told through the eyes of a young girl. "Haven" is heartbreaking, compelling, and inspiring. A book for those who've endured such situations, and for those who need to learn more about it. It's a smart, modern book about courage and compassion. "Haven" is the perfect title, too. We all seek a safe place during difficulties. The town and the senior home where much of the story takes place provides respite to the characters and the reader.
Haven and her mother escape an abusive father/husband by relocating to a town named Haven. Haven's mother works in a nursing home. While reluctant at first, Haven makes friends and matures in her new home. But, when her father finds them, their new lives are threatened.
It's well-paced, beautifully executed, and easily readable. A highly recommended, important book about how domestic abuse affects families, young and old.
Haven and her mother escape an abusive father/husband by relocating to a town named Haven. Haven's mother works in a nursing home. While reluctant at first, Haven makes friends and matures in her new home. But, when her father finds them, their new lives are threatened.
It's well-paced, beautifully executed, and easily readable. A highly recommended, important book about how domestic abuse affects families, young and old.
September 11, 2024
Mardella and her mother show courage and resilience starting over at a home for elders called Rest Haven. And boy, Mardella and her mom certainly need a safe haven away from their old life with an abusive father/husband. Just as Rest Haven desperately needs a makeover, so does Mardella’s world, which is bordered by guilt, shame, and doubt. Biel effectively and appropriately deals with a difficult topic and more, because Haven explores relationships, trust, and friendship at every age in life and proves that when people come together, beautiful things result. The writing and the illustrations weave together so well and will appeal to readers of all ages. Middle grade kids and their parents should read Mardella’s story together, then go out and plant some flowers or visit a nursing home.
October 4, 2024
Valerie Biel weaves an intriguing story of a young girl and her mother who escape a life of abuse. Eleven-year-old Mardella Houston and her mother embark on a new chapter in their lives, which should be hopeful. However, initially the move doesn’t appear to be as promising as Mardella had hoped. Her mother’s new job at a senior living facility means they have moved to a new town and Mardella struggles to make new friends and find her inner strength. Just as things start to look up for them, they learn that Mardella’s father has been released from jail. Will he find them? Will the nightmare become a reality once again?
The author weaves the effects of domestic abuse through the eyes of the young protagonist and does so in a caring and effective manner. Biel’s writing is compelling and authentic, resulting in an excellent story.
The author weaves the effects of domestic abuse through the eyes of the young protagonist and does so in a caring and effective manner. Biel’s writing is compelling and authentic, resulting in an excellent story.
November 5, 2024
Moving for a kid can be traumatic, especially if family circumstances are painful. This gentle Middle-Grade story addresses that. Haven is the name of a senior-living facility where Mardella Houston, 11, takes up residence in an apartment when her mother gets a manager job. To deal with nervousness about the move, Mardella calls on prayers and painting the dull walls with bright colors for solace. Adult readers or other kids may question why this place couldn’t find prettier paint for its walls previously but the minute Mardella asks for it the paint is bought. That’s okay because this is supposed to be sweet fiction showing how kids can be respected. She also suggests new flowers for the landscaping and that’s done in a jiffy, too. During these empowerment activities Mardella makes new friends and is able to handle memories about her violent father left behind in the move to Haven.
August 24, 2024
It was only when I finished the book and re-read the Dedication that I fully understood the power of this story. Valerie Biel brings a challenging topic to the fore, domestic abuse. We see it through the eyes of Marbella, an eleven-year-old girl who wrestles with many emotions including fear, shame and confusion.
Color swirls throughout the story, and the chapter headings made me laugh, even as they alerted me to the twists and turns in the story. The characters, both young and elderly, were beautifully depicted and I could easily imagine them in the setting, a modest retirement home.
By the time I read the final page, I was reassured. Haven restored my faith in people of all ages.
Color swirls throughout the story, and the chapter headings made me laugh, even as they alerted me to the twists and turns in the story. The characters, both young and elderly, were beautifully depicted and I could easily imagine them in the setting, a modest retirement home.
By the time I read the final page, I was reassured. Haven restored my faith in people of all ages.
November 7, 2024
Author Valerie Beil captures the personality, imagination, and fears of her eleven-year-old character, Mardella Houston, as her life goes sideways after a domestic violence incident. Even as the author addresses frightening situations and memories, she does so with a deft hand that keeps the content from becoming too overwhelming for middle school kids to read. Mardella carries guilt for a situation far outside of her control because of the liminted understanding of child's mind, something children that age will relate to. The book is beautifully written with engaging characters and enough tension that this adult couldn't stop reading. Highly recommend this book!
August 26, 2024
I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed “Haven” by Valerie Biel. Mardella’s story will warm your heart and draw you into a whirlwind of interesting characters and fast-paced writing.
Biel tackles topics of friendship and hardship in an authentic way as Mardella and her mom flee a troubled home situation. The suspense is well-done and woven seamlessly onto the page.
You will leave Rest Haven Senior Living with a smile on your face as Mardella and her mom find a new place to call home and meet a wonderful cast of lifelong friends.
“Haven” will stay with you long after you finish the book.
Biel tackles topics of friendship and hardship in an authentic way as Mardella and her mom flee a troubled home situation. The suspense is well-done and woven seamlessly onto the page.
You will leave Rest Haven Senior Living with a smile on your face as Mardella and her mom find a new place to call home and meet a wonderful cast of lifelong friends.
“Haven” will stay with you long after you finish the book.
November 7, 2024
Beautifully written with the utmost sensitivity, this novel speaks to the challenges of domestic abuse from the point of view of spunky eleven-year-old Mardella. Although she calls 911 to save her mother from being abused by her father, she’s left riddled with guilt. The safe “haven” her mother finds for them with her new job at a retirement home hundreds of miles away means Mardella has to start her life over. But she rises to the challenge and makes new friends in ways she least expects. Laced with insight, this exceptional novel will engage children and adults alike.
October 1, 2025
Gripping, emotional, and heartfelt, I was captivated by this thoughtful story of Mardella, a girl who, together with her mom, is forced to flee her drug-addicted, abusive father. They begin anew at the Rest Haven Senior Living, which has a fascinating cast of characters. Themes of abuse, guilt, fear, family, loss, and more are addressed in a sensitive and meaningful way. I'm not at all surprised that this book has received numerous awards.
Highly recommend!!
Highly recommend!!
November 6, 2024
Valerie Biel, an award winning author, has done it again. An adventure that takes place in an assisted living home for the elderly, this is a book about different kinds of people learning to care for each other. Marbella, the main character, settles into your heart, and you'll be cheering for her when things start to go seriously wrong! Nan Evenson
May 8, 2025
amazing story and illustrations!
Wow - at the heart ♥️ of the story is a tale of found family and their significance, but there are darker elements to give the story depth - making it a more compelling and serious read (at times). Highly recommend. TW: domestic violence, gun mentioned
Wow - at the heart ♥️ of the story is a tale of found family and their significance, but there are darker elements to give the story depth - making it a more compelling and serious read (at times). Highly recommend. TW: domestic violence, gun mentioned
September 24, 2024
This is such a beautifully written book, about multi-generational relationships and recovering from hurt. Biel slowly brings us into Mardella's secret as she lets her character learn how to trust from some loving senior citizens. Loved it!
October 29, 2024
A delicate topic handled with precision and tact. I highly recommend this for preteens and teens and others needing a boost. What a wonderful and uplifting story.
May 10, 2025
A little young for me but I still loved it
May 22, 2025
Now this was such a good book. I recommend for all ages. This was just an all around feel good book with a little bit of suspense!
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