The Sweetheart Deal

Name: The Sweetheart Deal
ISBN: 9780606001182

Candy Apple Series · Book 6 of 15

For the middle schooler feeling the pressure of school cliques and the drive to earn their own independence through a creative goal.

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About This Book

Reach for this book when your middle schooler is navigating the tricky social hierarchies of cliques or feeling the first real itch for financial and creative independence. It is a lighthearted yet relatable story about Leo, a boy who decides to start his own cookie-selling business to gain some autonomy and respect. Beyond the humor and the baking, the story explores the resilience needed to stand out in a crowd and the courage to follow a passion that might not fit the 'cool' mold. Parents will appreciate how it models problem-solving and the reality of trial and error in a low-stakes, age-appropriate setting. It is perfect for children aged 9 to 12 who are beginning to define themselves outside of their family and school expectations.

Baking Resilience & Perseverance Cooking & Food Self-Confidence & Identity Pride & Accomplishment Discovering a Talent School Life Humor

What Parents Should Know

Moral AmbiguityMild

Leo occasionally hides his business activities from his parents to maintain independence.

Sensitive Topics

The book deals with social exclusion and socioeconomic status (the desire for a new bike as a status symbol) in a very direct, secular, and realistic way. The resolution is hopeful and grounded in personal growth rather than a miraculous change in circumstances.