Publisher's Synopsis
When teenager Ben discovers an old, leather-bound journal hidden in his family's dusty attic, he has no idea it will unravel a mystery buried for decades. The journal belonged to Lila Graves, a passionate activist who fought for justice in the 1970s during the Evergreen Park protests. Each page reveals fragments of her story-her courage, her struggles, and the fierce determination that united a community against overwhelming odds.
As Ben dives deeper into the journal's entries, he begins to uncover the forgotten history of his neighborhood. What started as a curious find becomes a mission to uncover the truth behind the protests, the secrets surrounding Lila's life, and the reason her legacy has been hidden for so long. With the reluctant help of his skeptical friend Rachel, Ben retraces Lila's steps, uncovering clues that lead to long-buried plaques, forgotten photographs, and voices that refuse to be silenced.
But not everyone wants the past to resurface. The closer Ben gets to the truth, the more resistance he faces from those who'd rather the events of Evergreen Park stay in the shadows. As he pieces together the story of a movement that changed lives, Ben discovers that the fight for justice isn't confined to history-it's a battle that continues in the present day.
The Secret Journal is a moving tale of resilience, community, and the enduring power of truth. It reminds us that history is more than just a collection of dates-it's the voices of those who fought to be heard, and the legacies they leave behind.
