About This Book
A parent would reach for this book when they notice their child is beginning to pull away from family life or when a previously close relationship with an older sibling is becoming strained by new secrets and independence. It is a nuanced look at the middle school years, focusing on twelve-year-old Taylor and thirteen-year-old Lindsey as they navigate the shifting dynamics of their families. Through a trip to San Francisco and the emotional weight of a pet's death, the story explores the complexities of loyalty and the burden of keeping someone else's secrets. The book handles themes of honesty and the awkward transition into adolescence with a realistic, grounded touch. It is highly appropriate for ages 9 to 12, offering a mirror for children who feel caught between the simplicity of childhood and the moral ambiguity of being a teenager. Parents will appreciate how it validates the confusion of growing up while reinforcing the importance of familial bonds.
