GROW UP, TAHLIA WILKINS!

On the last day of seventh grade, right before Noah Campos’ pool party, Tahlia Wilkins worries about a new zit.

Last year she wore a practical, sun-protective, but unfashionable outfit and was totally embarrassed to see how fashion-forward the other girls were. Noah is superpopular, and Tahlia is determined to make a good impression this time, but her first period threatens to upend her plans. Tahlia wants to start menstruating, but not right before the party, just after her mom has left on a work retreat. She can’t talk to her socially awkward dad about it and doesn’t have an older sister, just obnoxious 16-year-old twin brothers. She has no pads but finds some in her parents’ bathroom. Luckily, Tahlia’s best friend, Lily Baek, tries to assist, offering good ideas and some scatterbrained solutions. In the 24 hours between the onset of Tahlia’s period and the help that she finally gets from her parents, her first step into womanhood is filled with funny, albeit mortifying, moments that will have readers both laughing and sympathizing. While largely focused on bodily concerns, there are also messages about friendship and family matters. Quick-moving, lighthearted, and ultimately heartwarming, this first-person narrative will especially be enjoyed by readers awaiting or having recently experienced their first periods. Tahlia’s family is cued White. Lily’s surname points to Korean ancestry, and names indicate some diversity in the supporting cast.

Humorously highlights a meaningful milestone for a tween: a first period.