In the Role of Brie Hutchens

Reach for this book when your middle-schooler is struggling to bridge the gap between who they are becoming and the expectations of their family or faith community. It is an essential resource for a child who feels they must 'perform' a certain version of themselves to stay safe or loved. The story follows thirteen-year-old Brie, a soap-opera-obsessed aspiring actor who realizes she is attracted to girls. When her mother discovers a secret, Brie panics and tells a lie that spirals, testing her relationships and her sense of integrity. It is a deeply realistic look at the weight of shame and the courage required for radical honesty. Parents will appreciate how it handles the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and Catholic school life with nuance and heart. It is best suited for ages 9 to 13, offering a roadmap for navigating difficult conversations when the stakes feel incredibly high.