The Trouble with Secrets

A Jewish girl preparing for her upcoming bat mitzvah tries to keep a secret—along with one of her sister’s—in this beautiful coming-of-age contemporary novel that explores change, grief, and the complexities of sibling relationships. A Sydney Taylor Notable Book!

Twelve-year-old Becky has great expectations placed upon her. Not only does she need to be as perfect as her older brother and sister, but her upcoming bat mitzvah needs to be perfect, too. She is the rabbi’s daughter, after all. The trouble is, Becky’s intentions often lead her astray. At least when she plays the flute, she feels like the best version of herself. Until playing the flute causes Becky to do something not so perfect: keep a secret from her parents.

Then Becky discovers that Sara, her "perfect" sister, has an even bigger secret. One that could turn the family upside down. The sisters couldn’t be more ready to keep each other’s secret safe…until the excitement turns to guilt, and Becky is forced to make an impossible choice.

When secrets are shared and choices are made, doing the right thing can feel so wrong. And Becky will learn that actions, no matter how well intended, always have consequences.

One sister’s choice. Another’s secret. A family caught in the middle.

• Sisters and Secrets: Becky and her “perfect” older sister Sara promise to have each other’s backs. But when Sara’s secret is big enough to tear their family apart, Becky must decide where her loyalty lies.
• Finding Your Voice: As the rabbi’s daughter, Becky feels pressure to be perfect, especially with her bat mitzvah approaching. But doing the right thing is more complicated than she ever imagined.
• Jewish Family Life: A heartfelt story that explores the traditions, expectations, and love within a modern Jewish family navigating change.
• A Poignant Look at Loss: This moving story gently explores the difficult topics of grief and loss, offering a hopeful path toward healing for middle grade readers.