Best Babysitters Ever

Finding an old copy of Kristy’s Great Idea in a box of free books, seventh grader Malia (or “Alia,” as she prefers) devises a plan to raise money for the most epic joint birthday party of all time. Enlisting the help of her two best friends—aloof, black-clad Dot and bubbly, Taylor Swift–obsessed Bree—the three launch a babysitting service, refusing to let lack of experience (or dislike of children) stand in their way. When Malia’s perfect older sister schemes to steal their clients, the girls are forced to reconsider their plans, as well as their own motivations and needs. In her middle grade debut, Cala artfully uses humorous banter to paint the dissimilar friends’ realistic relationships as well as their bumbling efforts to vocalize their feelings and advocate for themselves. Some scenes, as when a charge urges the babysitters to communicate, can feel inauthentic but allow worthwhile messages to shine. An appealing, humor-filled update to a classic series. Ages 10–12. Agent: Lanie Davis, Alloy Entertainment. [em](Feb.) [/em]