Keeping It Real: A Powerful Story About Family Secrets and Betrayal for Kids (Ages 8-12)

“Fun and juicy.”—New York Times

“A solid story of summer growth and exploration.”—Kirkus Reviews

Marigold Johnson is looking forward to a future full of family, friends, and fashion—but what will she do when it all explodes in her face? When she discovers that her entire life is a lie?

Paula Chase, the author of So Done, Dough Boys, and Turning Point, explores betrayal, conformity, and forgiveness—and what it means to be family—in this stand-alone novel perfect for fans of Jason Reynolds, Rebecca Stead, and Renée Watson.

Marigold Johnson can’t wait to attend a special program at her family’s business, Flexx Unlimited, for teens who love fashion. But Mari quickly realizes that she’s out of place compared to the three other trainees—and one girl, Kara, seems to hate her on sight.

As tension builds and the stakes at the program get higher, Mari uncovers exactly why Kara’s been so spiteful. She also discovers some hard truths about herself and her family.

Paula Chase explores complex themes centering on friendships, family, and what it means to conform to fit in. Keeping It Real is also a powerful exploration of what happens when parents pick and choose what they shield their children from. Timely and memorable, Paula Chase’s character-driven story touches on creativity, art, fashion, and music. A great choice for the upper middle grade audience.

When a shocking secret comes to light, Marigold must question everything she thought she knew about who she is. Will the truth tear her world apart, or show her what it really means to be family?

• A Shocking Family Secret: Marigold thinks she knows her family. But when the summer program brings her face-to-face with the antagonistic Kara, she uncovers a life-changing lie her parents have kept hidden for years.
• Exploring Class and Identity: Moving between her wealthy private school and the world of her family’s hip-hop business, Marigold grapples with what it means to be “Black enough” and find her own voice.
• Complex Friendships: Her bond with longtime friend Justice is tested as new dynamics and hidden truths put their loyalty on the line.
• A Character-Driven Story: Perfect for middle grade readers who love authentic voices, this novel tackles tough topics like conformity, forgiveness, and what it truly means to be family.

Paula Chase is the cofounder of The Brown Bookshelf, a site designed to increase awareness of African American voices writing for young readers. She lives in Annapolis, Maryland. Her novels include the acclaimed So Done and its companion, Dough Boys. www.paulachasehyman.com