A parent should reach for this book when their child feels like they don't quite fit in, or like they are a bundle of contradictions. It's for the kid who feels like they have 'two wrong halves'. Eleven-year-old Ruby Taylor loves science and logic, but also sparkly, creative things, and she feels these two sides of her are at war. When she discovers a secret from her estranged Jewish grandmother's side of the family, she learns she comes from a line of people with the magical ability to split into two separate bodies. This book gently explores themes of self-acceptance, identity, and family history through a clever and engaging magical mystery. It's a wonderful choice for middle graders learning to embrace all the different parts of themselves.
The core theme of identity is explored both directly, through Ruby's poignant narration, and metaphorically, through the magical ability to split. The book addresses family estrangement (between Ruby's mom and grandmother) with a secular approach, leading to a hopeful resolution based on communication and understanding. Jewish identity and culture, specifically Gematria (Hebrew numerology), are central to the magic and plot, presented in a positive, educational, and integral way. A past family death related to historical persecution (alluding to the Holocaust without graphic detail) is a key part of the backstory, handled with sensitivity and focusing on legacy.
Ideal Reader
This book is perfect for an introspective 9 to 12-year-old who feels 'weird' or different, and perhaps struggles with social anxiety. It will deeply resonate with a child who feels they have conflicting interests or personality traits and is trying to figure out how to be one whole person. It is especially good for a kid who enjoys a clever mystery woven into their fantasy.
Parent Prep
The book can be read cold; the concepts of Gematria and the family history are explained clearly within the narrative. A parent might preview the climax (around chapters 28-30) if their child is particularly sensitive to peril, but it is age-appropriate. No other prep is needed. A parent has heard their child say things like, 'I don't fit in anywhere,' 'Nobody understands me,' or 'I feel like I have to pretend to be someone else.' The child may seem to be struggling to connect with peers or to define their own interests.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will likely focus on the fun magic of splitting in two, the friendship story, and solving the locket mystery. An older reader (10-12) will connect more deeply with the metaphor for a fragmented identity, the complexities of intergenerational family dynamics, and the theme of embracing your heritage.
What Makes It Special
The integration of Jewish Gematria as the foundation of the magic system is what makes this book unique. It's not just atmospheric dressing; the magic is intrinsically linked to the protagonist's cultural heritage and personal journey of discovery. This specific, culturally-rooted fantasy provides a fresh and meaningful take on the 'finding your magic' trope.
Read plot summary
Eleven-year-old Ruby Taylor feels internally fractured, like 'two wrong halves' that don't make a right whole. Her logical, science-minded self clashes with her creative, glitter-loving self. A mysterious locket from her estranged grandmother, a Gematria expert, sets her on a path of discovery. With new friends Ana and Cole, Ruby learns her family has a magical secret: some of them can split into two separate, physical beings. Ruby must solve the mystery of her family's past and her own identity, navigating family secrets and a magical threat that endangers them all.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Ruby often feels like she has 'two wrong halves'. Have you ever felt like different parts of your personality don't seem to fit together? What does Ruby learn about these halves by the end of the story?
2
Ruby's magic is connected to Gematria and her Jewish heritage. How does learning about her family's history and culture help her understand herself and her abilities?
3
At first, Ruby isn't sure she can trust her new friends, Ana and Cole. What specific moments or actions make her decide to let them in on her secret?
4
Ruby's mom and grandmother haven't spoken in years because of a painful secret. Why do you think adults sometimes keep secrets from their children? Was it the right decision?
5
If you had Ruby's ability to split into two, what would you have your other self do? What might be the dangers or problems with having a double?
