Like Magic

This wholesome, sensitive story follows three girls of varying racial and ethnic backgrounds during the summer before fifth grade, as they confront significant life changes. Artist Jada, uprooted from New Jersey to Utah by her father, hopes to convince her absent mother to come home. Musician Malia is worried that the arrival of her baby sister will shift family dynamics. Quiet writer Grace is mourning her best friend’s departure and struggling to find her voice. All three girls eventually journey to the Salt Lake City Library where a kind librarian lends them, in turn, a mysterious treasure box. As the girls alternately leave a significant item in it and receive the gift left by the previous borrower, they draw comfort from the gifts and from each other. All three girls’ stories are relatable, as debut author Vickers addresses real fears confronting girls this age and explores their encounters from multiple perspectives. Themes of sharing, trust, and family never overshadow the story’s heart: a natural longing for friendship and the unfettered joy of finding it. Ages 8–12. Agent: Ammi-Joan Paquette, Erin Murphy Literary. (Oct.)