The Trouble with Secrets

Gr 5-7–Rebecca “Becky” Myerson is a 12-year-old Jewish girl. Daughter of a rabbi and overshadowed by her perfect older brother and sister, Becky often feels lackluster. That is, until her teacher suggests she audition for the All-County Band. But her bat mitzvah preparation comes first, according to her parents, even when Becky tries to convince them otherwise. When convincing doesn’t get very far, she takes matters into her own hands. Keeping secrets is hard, and soon enough, it’s not only her secrets; older sister Sara has a secret, too, one that that may end up costing her life. This novel balances the past and present, with ominous echoes from “Now” coloring a mostly lighthearted “Before.” Readers feel the whiplash of happiness and grief as they inch closer and closer to the “Now,” and when it comes, grieve with Becky as she tries to cope, grow, and live in the face of loss. Though this plot twist is highly effective and powerful, younger readers looking for a typical middle grade fiction experience may get more than they bargained for. The novel’s impactful and detailed Jewish representation makes this a story worth reading, and may act as a teaching tool for cultural education and a love letter to Jewish tradition.