SERENA SAYS

Eleven-year-old Serena has always considered herself to be the sidekick to her best friend, JC.

Serena has been anticipating their first visit in over a week, as JC is hospitalized following a kidney transplant. Unfortunately, Serena comes down with a bad cold, and classmate Leilani steps into her role as class ambassador to deliver the gift bag they put together at school. Soon JC is full of talk about Lani, and Serena finds herself resentful of their closeness. Despite the efforts of her mother and older sister, Serena has trouble accepting that relationships change and feels pushed aside despite having new activities and friendships. She even wonders if race is a factor: She is Black while JC is Filipina and Lani is Hawaiian. However, JC’s medical issues have exacted a toll: She has become prickly around Serena and seems to reserve her good humor for her new friend. Serena practices recording a personal vlog where she pours out her feelings. It takes time, but Serena does find her own worth and even manages to stand up to her best friend. Middle school energy forms a bustling backdrop for this clever story of navigating changing relationships and developing a sense of personal identity. Secondary characters and storylines provide humor and pathos while at the center is spirited, smart Serena, someone readers will appreciate and cheer.

A delightful multicultural narrative that spotlights friendship and self-awareness.