Close to Famous

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with a hidden academic hurdle, like dyslexia, or when your family is navigating a major life transition and needs a reminder of their inner strength. Twelve-year-old Foster McFee is a gifted baker who can't read, but she possesses an unbreakable spirit. After she and her mother flee a domestic crisis to start over in a small town, Foster must find the courage to ask for help with her literacy while pursuing her dream of having her own cooking show. This story is a masterclass in resilience and the power of community support. It addresses heavy topics like learning disabilities and escaping a dangerous home life with a gentle, hopeful touch that never feels overwhelming. Ideal for middle-grade readers, it celebrates the idea that while we may start with very little, hard work and a bit of 'sugar' in the form of kindness can build a beautiful new life.