The Best Friend Bracelet

Black middle schooler Zariah runs a friendship bracelet-making business with the goal of cementing friendships with clientele via her one-of-a-kind designs. When she’s asked to make a bracelet for her former best friend, Zariah is conflicted. Once inspiration strikes, however, she produces her best bracelet yet using special beads from her favorite shop—and it seems different from the rest. Zariah excitedly showcases her new piece on social media, and when the creation goes viral, students are eager to know who will receive the extravagant gift. But after a classmate touches the bracelet and suddenly insists that Zariah is her bestie, Zariah wonders if the accessory can magically turn people into her BFF. Not everyone is as entranced by her creations, though, and when her parents set an ultimatum—improve her grades or shut down her business—Zariah’s growing popularity is put in jeopardy. In this sentimental and kindhearted novel, Collier (The Many Fortunes of Maya) realistically presents adolescent angst as viewed through a thoughtfully realized protagonist whose avid internal reflection—influenced by a mite of magic—will inspire readers’ own path toward personal introspection. Ages 8–12. Agent: Danielle Chiotti, Upstart Crow Literary. (Oct.)