
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with what it means to be the 'only' one in a room or is struggling to maintain their identity while navigating a new, complicated friendship. It is an ideal choice for middle grade readers who are beginning to notice social dynamics, microaggressions, and the way history shapes their present reality. Alberta is a surf-loving California girl who is thrilled when another Black girl, Edie, moves to her small town, but their differing backgrounds and a local mystery soon test their bond. The story beautifully balances a lighthearted mystery with deeper themes of racial identity, family secrets, and the pressure of fitting in. Written for ages 8 to 12, it provides a safe space for parents to discuss the nuances of the Black experience beyond stereotypes. You might choose this book to help your child develop empathy, validate their feelings of social isolation, or simply enjoy a character-driven mystery that prioritizes emotional intelligence.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe story depicts instances of microaggressions at school, such as being excluded from group projects because of assumptions about academic abilities. It also explores the historical context of racial passing and the emotional impact of colorism through the mystery surrounding the journals.
This is perfect for a child who feels like an outlier in their community or who enjoys puzzles and history but wants a story rooted in real-world social dynamics.
This book can be read cold, but parents should be ready to discuss the concept of "passing" as it relates to the historical mystery in the journals. The depictions of microaggressions are realistic and provide excellent openings for conversation about standing up for oneself. For example, Alberta experiences backhanded compliments about her intelligence. This could be a good opportunity to discuss how to respond when someone makes a similar comment. A child comes home feeling frustrated because their peers are making assumptions based on their race or making hurtful comments.
An 8-year-old will likely focus on the mystery of the hidden journals and the fun of a new neighbor. A 12-year-old will more deeply internalize the nuances of the girls' differing Black experiences and the historical weight of the journals' secrets.
This book stands out by exploring the contrast between West Coast surf culture and East Coast urban culture, while seamlessly weaving a historical mystery into a contemporary middle-grade social narrative.
Alberta lives in a small California surfing town, and Edie has just moved into the house across the street. The two girls bond quickly, but they are very different: Alberta is a sunny surfer with two dads while Edie is a goth-styled Brooklyn native. Together, they discover a box of journals in Edie's attic that reveals a decades-old mystery involving a woman passing for white. As they investigate the past, they must also navigate microaggressions at school, shifting friendship dynamics, and the complexities of race and belonging.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.