Starred review from November 14, 2022
A queer Black 16-year-old plans an extravagant coming-out bash in this potent, character-driven drama by Garrett (Off the Record). Music enthusiast Mahalia Harris’s mother couldn’t afford the sweet 16 party she promised to throw her, but Mahalia is determined to make up for it by secretly saving up for an epic coming-out extravaganza. Despite Mahalia’s drive, however, her plan falters under the weight of interpersonal challenges. Her single mother needs to have a hysterectomy to remove a fibroid; Mahalia struggles to relate to her Black best friend Naomi, whose well-off parents threw her an unforgettable sweet 16; and her crush, Black Irish Siobhan, who is new to San Diego, is dating a racist white boy, resulting in tension between her and Siobhan. As Mahalia prioritizes getting to know Siobhan, her grades, job, and relationship with Naomi begin to fray, and it starts to seem unlikely she’ll get the coming-out she desires. Mahalia’s determination to give herself a happy ending and overcome her internal turmoil, compounded by class struggles and experiences of homophobia and racism, propels this fresh and wise narrative. Both piercingly observant and joyful, this uplifting read stands out. Ages 12–up. Agent: Beth Phelan, Gallt & Zacker Literary.
November 15, 2022
A queer Black teen struggles with revealing her sexuality to her religious mom. When Mahalia was 6, her mom promised her that she could have a Sweet 16 party, but it turns out there isn't enough money for it this year. Mahalia is having a hard time accepting that--even though deep down she thinks complaining about it makes her a brat--but her best friend, Naomi, gets to have a big gala for her 16th birthday. Mahalia also doesn't know how to come out to her mom. When she tells Naomi how frustrated she feels about needing to come out at all--why does society assume people are straight unless they say otherwise?--Naomi suggests she do things on her own terms and make a big splash. Inspired, Mahalia decides to save up for a coming-out party, complete with music, confetti, and a rainbow dress to celebrate her queerness. Between crushing on Siobhan, the new girl from Ireland (who has a boyfriend); struggling under the responsibility of paying the bills after her mom is laid off; and keeping up with SAT prep and homework, Mahalia doesn't know if the party can even happen. Weighty topics are explored in lighthearted ways, including poverty, religion, and sexual and racial identity (Siobhan has a Black dad and White mum). This absorbing, appealing narrative is equal parts funny, romantic, and affirming. Romantic comedy that celebrates being yourself on your own terms. (Fiction. 14-18)
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January 1, 2023
Grades 9-12 In her latest novel, Garrett (Off the Record, 2021) authentically captures the tumultuous spirit of high school. Inspired by her best friend's sweet-16 party, Mahalia decides to throw herself a coming-out party. But the world seems to be against her as she tackles complicated familial relationships, a friendship that appeared to be on the rocks, a crush on the new girl at school, and preparing for college. Mahalia's voice rings true in Garrett's capable hands. Mahalia's plight is one that many can relate to: she struggles with making compromises and has too many priorities to juggle. She might not be perfect, but Mahalia comes across as vividly real, and that realness makes her an empathetic character that readers will ultimately root for as she navigates love, relationships, and speaking up for herself. With a nod to pop-culture icons, Garrett has crafted a book rooted in contemporary concerns, with a main character addressing evergreen problems. Readers who are at a crossroads will undoubtedly see themselves in this engrossing novel.
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