GUT REACTION

A young baker battles inflammatory bowel disease in this collaboration between debut author Wyatt, who has Crohn’s disease, and her mother, award-winning author Larson.

Tess Medina, who’s starting eighth grade at a new school, is grieving the loss of her father, who owned a bakery and inspired her: “I am Dad 2.0.” While she finds comfort in the kitchen, her loneliness grows alongside her recent, increasingly severe, gastrointestinal pain, which feels like there’s a woodpecker or porcupine in her abdomen. Fortunately, Tess’ baking skills help her find a new group of quirky friends, helping to soothe memories of lost friendships from the “before-time.” A scary, mortifying bathroom emergency leads to a diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, which Tess cannot bear to reveal to her friends. A few plot threads feel unresolved once the story switches to focus on Tess as she enters a prestigious junior baking competition. As the high-pressure action builds, her urgent trips to the bathroom continue. Though Dad died three years ago, he remains a strong guiding presence in Tess’ life; her mom demonstrates steady concern and support. New friend Elly reminds Tess, “The thing is, everyone has something wonky, right? …You can’t be human without being messed up in some way.” The book’s message is clear: It takes courage to reveal your weaknesses, and it takes kindness to accept them in others. Tess reads white; names cue ethnic diversity in the supporting cast.

A compassionate exploration of living with chronic illness.