Honest June (Honest June #1)

To keep others happy, 11-year-old June Jackson, who is Black, tells mistruths about everything from liking collard greens to wanting to go to Howard University. Though she feels pressure to live up to her parents' professional success, June believes that sixth grade ("Prime time. The big leagues") in her Atlanta suburb will be smooth sailing if she keeps quiet about the stress of getting perfect grades; doing field hockey, debate, and newspaper; and somehow making time for friends. When June enters a carnival fun house two weeks into the school year, a fairy godmother calls her out on her lying and grants her a superpower: the power to only tell the truth. Scared of her new inability to lie, June starts a blog, Honest June, where she can place her "private truths," planning to otherwise remain silent. But as building pressures cause further anxiety, June is forced to consider who she is and what she really wants. Wells (the Mackenzie Blue series) and Smith offer a clear message about the dangers of repressing one's needs and wants to appease others. Occasional b&w cartoon-style art by newcomer Bond centers character interaction. Final art not seen by PW. Ages 8-12. Illustrator's agent: Kate Kendrick, Astound US. (Dec.)

Gr 4-7--Honesty is not always the best policy. Especially for 11-year-old Black girl June Jackson, who believes telling seemingly innocent lies to her family and friends is the only way to make everyone happy. When her dad pressures her to join the field hockey team, she does, even though she much prefers writing for the school paper. When her mom chooses embarrassingly childish outfits for her to wear, she inconspicuously changes into something more mature. As if middle school and her parents' high expectations weren't challenging enough, June's life is turned upside down when a fairy godmother appears and puts a spell on her that forces June to say what she is truly feeling at all times. June has always been afraid that the truth will hurt everyone around her. Now, equipped with a fairy godmother on her shoulder and an honesty blog in her pocket, June must take her newfound "gift" and discover that, even though it's difficult, telling the truth is always the best choice. In this cleverly updated fairy tale, Wells has crafted a relatable, likable protagonist, despite June's overt lack of honesty. Readers will empathize with June; her relationship with her parents and the constant pressure she is under will keep fans rooting for her to finally speak her truth. This is a fun read that reminds young people that being honest is always best. VERDICT Recommended for reluctant upper elementary and middle school readers seeking lighthearted realistic fiction with a touch of magic.--Amanda Harding, Elmwood Elem. Sch., Wauconda, IL