This is the kind of book that stays with you. Draper doesn't shy away from the hard stuff—police brutality, the exhausting 'What are you?' questions biracial kids face, parents who love you but can't get their act together. It's heavy, no question, and the police scene where shots are fired is genuinely scary.

But it's also necessary. For kids navigating divorce, racial identity, or both, seeing Isabella's story can be deeply validating. For kids who aren't, it builds crucial empathy. The writing is strong, the pacing is tight, and Draper trusts her readers to handle complexity.

The caveat: this isn't a casual read. You'll want to be available for conversation, especially around the police violence. But if your middle schooler is ready for real talk about race and family, this is one of the best contemporary options out there.