The Girls of Skylark Lane

Twelve-year-old twin sisters Aggie and Jac have mixed feelings about moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles with their fathers. Aggie worries about change and fitting in, while Jac is excited for a fresh start; they both take comfort in the fact that they have each other. On their first day at their new school, Aggie befriends exuberant classmate Tink, who lives just around the corner from the sisters. The twins soon join Tink’s ragtag softball team, comprising piano player Marnie, lemonade stand mogul Adriana, and Dylan, whose mother is a reality television star. Even as every practice seems to end in chaos and drama, Aggie and Jac bond with their new friends and contend with first crushes, first periods, growing up, and growing apart. In this heartwarming slice-of-life novel, a middle grade debut, Benway (The Wicked Ones) showcases the importance of friendship, family, and forgiveness in helping tweens navigate the awkwardness and uncertainty of early adolescence. Quickly resolved conflict is handled sensitively, further contributing to the feel-good atmosphere. Characters are depicted on the cover with varying skin tones. Ages 8–12. Agent: Lisa Grubka, United Talent. (Oct.)