
Reach for this book when your middle schooler is grappling with the weight of expectations, particularly when their internal truth feels at odds with their family's faith or traditional values. It is a vital resource for parents whose children are beginning to navigate their first crushes or questioning their identity within a religious framework. The story follows eighth grader Brie, an aspiring actress at a Catholic school who tells a major lie to cover up her confusion about her sexuality. As she navigates the fallout, the book explores themes of shame, honesty, and the deep desire to be seen and loved for who you truly are. It is a realistic, heartwarming, and deeply honest look at the messy process of coming out to oneself and one's family, suitable for ages 10 to 14.
Exploration of a first crush, butterflies, and questioning sexuality.
Themes of religious guilt, fear of rejection, and feeling 'wrong' or broken.
None.
A 12 year old who feels they are living a double life. This is perfect for a child in a traditional or religious environment who is beginning to realize their identity might not align with their community's expectations and needs to see that honesty, while difficult, leads to freedom.
This book can be read cold. Parents might want to discuss the scene where Brie is caught looking at photos, as it highlights the panic a child feels when they aren't ready to share their identity. It serves as a great starting point for discussing the difference between privacy and secrecy. A child may reach for this book after a moment of intense privacy or a sudden defensive reaction regarding their internet history or personal interests. It is for the parent who senses their child is "performing" a certain version of themselves to keep the peace at home.
A 10 year old will focus on the slapstick humor of the school play and the stress of the "big lie." A 14 year old will more deeply resonate with the nuances of Brie's religious conflict and the vulnerability of having a first crush.
Unlike many coming out stories that take place in secular settings, this book specifically tackles the intersection of queer identity and Catholic faith with nuance and respect, refusing to make the two sides mutually exclusive.
Brie Hutchens is an eighth grader at a Catholic school with a passion for soap operas and acting. When her mother catches her looking at pictures of a female actress, Brie panics and tells a lie to cover her tracks, claiming she was selected for the prestigious May Crowning ceremony. The novel follows Brie as she attempts to make this lie a reality while managing her school play and her growing feelings for a female classmate, Kennedy. Ultimately, Brie must confront her own internalized shame and find the courage to come out to her religious family.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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