Secrets and Scones

Gr 5–8—Young teens often feel that the whole world observes and judges them and knows all their secrets. In Scarlet's case, she's right. Her mom is a successful "mommy blogger" and success depends on sharing embarrassing details of Scarlet's life. To avoid giving her mom further ammunition, Scarlet has decided to become as boring as possible. She isn't involved in activities, and she avoids sharing her thoughts and ideas with her mom. Her friendships have shriveled in the glare of her mother's success. When a neighbor is hospitalized, Scarlet steps in to feed the cat, and her life begins to change for the better. She finds herself in a large, well-appointed, and well-stocked kitchen. A cookbook lays open to a recipe for scones. Baking sets off a series of events that help Scarlet have fun, rebuild her confidence, and create and repair friendships. There's even a new career direction and potential love interest for her mom. The intergenerational friendship with her neighbor allows readers to explore issues of elder care and grief. Death is handled gently and appropriately for the intended audience. The story feels old-fashioned while exploring very timely issues of Internet privacy. The characters cook a number of delectable items that are carefully described; the scones recipe is included near the end of the book.