Noteworthy

Reach for this book when your teenager is struggling with the pressure to fit into a specific social or creative box. It is the perfect choice for a child who feels like their natural talents or physical traits, such as a deep voice or a quiet personality, are viewed as setbacks rather than strengths. The story follows Jordan Sun, a girl at a prestigious boarding school who disguises herself as a boy to join an all-male a cappella group after being rejected from the school musical. At its heart, this is a sophisticated exploration of identity, gender performance, and the search for a community where one can be truly heard. While it features a fun, high-stakes premise, it deeply addresses the financial stress of scholarship students and the complexities of being a first-generation immigrant. Parents will appreciate how the book handles Jordan's journey of self-discovery with nuance and humor, making it an excellent bridge for discussing authenticity and the courage to challenge stereotypes.