The Unexpected Consequence of Bleeding on a Tuesday

Gr 9 Up–Toney’s debut explores chronic illness, youth agency, and the fight to be heard. At its center is 17-year-old Delia Bridges, a high-achieving high school senior whose dreams of becoming a doctor are jeopardized by excruciating period pain—pain that has been dismissed by adults and medical professionals for years. When a well-intentioned gift from her younger sister—a homemade marijuana tincture—helps Delia make it to a crucial mentorship meeting, it also leads to her expulsion from their prestigious Texas prep school. Forced to finish out the year in public school, Delia reconnects with Ruby, a former best friend now dealing with her own chronic condition, IBS. Their renewed friendship becomes a catalyst for advocacy, as Ruby’s fight against rigid attendance policies inspires Delia to raise her voice, too. With humor and tenderness, Toney deftly navigates themes of period stigma, systemic medical neglect, and health equity, grounding the story in Delia’s candid first-person narration. Her emotional growth toward period positivity is supported by a likable, diverse cast. Toney’s personal connection to the subject matter brings authenticity to the narrative, lending credibility and depth to Delia’s experiences.