About This Book
Reach for this book when your tween is navigating the delicate balance of wanting to be recognized for their talents while fearing the judgment of their peers. It is a perfect fit for a child who feels they have a hidden persona or a creative spark they are not quite ready to share with the whole school. The story follows Emma Rose, a girl who secretly becomes a sought-after fashion designer named Allegra Biscotti, only to find herself trapped in a web of lies and double identities when she has to intern for herself. Through Emma's frantic attempts to keep her secret, the book explores themes of self-confidence, the pressure of social hierarchies, and the slippery slope of white lies. It is a lighthearted, age-appropriate read for 9-to-13-year-olds that validates the feeling of being an outsider while celebrating the power of hard work and creative passion. Parents will appreciate how it addresses the complexities of middle school friendships and the importance of being true to oneself, even when it feels safer to hide behind a mask.
