IF YOU READ THIS

On her 12th birthday, Brie receives a surprise gift from her deceased mother.

Brie’s mother was full of adventure. She had the loudest laugh. She sang too loudly even when she didn’t know the words. She would take Brie on adventures that lasted all day. When cancer took away her energy, her health, and ultimately her life, Brie realized that she would gladly endure the embarrassments of her exuberant mother just to have her back. In the three years since her mother’s passing, Brie’s Nana has kept the birthday breakfast tradition her Mama started. But on her 12th birthday, something is different. A gift her Mama left her for this birthday contains letters that lead her on an adventure across her Jamaican town to find something that will bring her joy for years to come. Struggling with her father’s constant absence and lack of attention, Brie makes do with help from best friends, her Nana, and her aunt and uncle as she solves the puzzle. After many emotional and strategic ups and downs, Brie learns more about her Mama and her Papa and gains a gift that will help her learn more about herself. This delightful coming-of-age story details a transformative experience, pairing vivid characters with an evocative setting and bringing readers on an unforgettable journey. Humorous and touching in its drama and relationships, this story will hold readers’ attention and make them care.

Dazzling.