IN SEARCH OF THE PINMAKER

Emotional rapids complicate the frantic efforts of four teens to counter an evil scheme centered on a nearby theme park’s grand new plans.

The magic enameled pins that Sophie, Angela, Skylar, and Travis received in the series opener gave them special powers that helped them become their best selves. But can they use those powers to stop the shadowy corporate overlords of FUNTASTIC PLAINS from passing out another sort of pin that will brainwash everyone who comes to the upcoming opening of the theme park’s Princess P and Swanson T Swan expansion into existing only “to fund the corporation”? Let the search for the pins’ mysterious maker begin! Meanwhile, twins Sophie and Becca work to mend fences with the support of their “mama bears,” while guilt-stricken Angela does the same with Skylar after copying their pin designs without permission, and Travis humorously fails to conceal his crush on bestie Rhyan from his friends or even his accepting Gramps. In Lawrence’s narrative, which features frequent text message exchanges, the plot doesn’t really pull its weight. Still, individual quandaries and stresses in the cast of predominantly Black characters are common and relatable enough to carry readers along past a mildly suspenseful climax to smoother waters on both the relationship and corporate skullduggery fronts. Cacao’s occasional monochrome illustrations depict figures with diverse body types.

A lightweight sequel that will satisfy returning fans.