The Apology Box by Naomi Ulsted
We all make mistakes. Sometimes it feels like we can't go on after those mistakes and you want to give up because it feels like no one can help you. That's how Tessa feels after she accidentally starts a huge forest fire which destroys nature, businesses, people's families, and her future. The penalties are steep for Tessa, including a huge fine, writing letters to those whom she impacted so negatively, and an endless amount of community service hours. For her community service hours, Tessa begins volunteering at Morningstar, which is a home for the elderly. There she meets Effby, a crotchety old woman who really doesn't like anyone and has no family. Oddly, despite seemingly wanting to both be left alone and disappear, Effby and Tessa begin to bond. Perhaps a cranky old woman might just be the person who can help get Tessa through this unbearably difficult time. Who knows, maybe Tessa will learn a thing or two about forgiving herself even if no one else will. This b