Wren is still adjusting to her parents' divorce. She lives with her mother near Chicago, and her father and his new wife live in Brooklyn, NY. It's been decided that Wren should start visiting her father so she can reconnect with her dad and get to know Vanessa and the soon to be born twins. Turns out these visits are comfortable and fun until Wren gets back home where she is hesitant to share her experiences with her mother in case it upsets her.
Another change involves moving to a new town for what her mother calls a fresh start. Since her mother spends lots a time at the hospital where she works as a nurse, Wren fends for herself most days and evenings after school. Her passion is watching YouTube tutorials by a makeup artist named Cat FX. Wren loves that the makeup isn't your average everyday makeup. Cat FX specializes in characters and Wren's favorite is the mermaid. She watches every video and then tries to repeat the process on herself, her mother, if she has time, and even her new friend Poppy.
While Wren is trying to get more involved at school, her mother begins acting strangely. She comes and goes at random times, and when she is home she either falls asleep on the couch or locks herself in her bedroom. Wren is never sure what mood will greet her when her mother makes an appearance. Something isn't right, but Wren doesn't know who to talk to about her concerns.
Author Barbara Dee's new middle grade novel will not be staying on the shelf long once girls learn about it. The fascinating makeup tutorials combined with relatable family struggles will speak to many readers. I think this may be Dee's best work yet.
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