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 choice. A secret that won’t stay buried. A family changed forever.

• A Coming-of-Age Story: Twelve-year-old Becky is just trying to survive her bat mitzvah prep and her family’s expectations. But when she discovers her sister’s secret, she’s forced to grow up faster than she ever imagined.
• Complex Sibling Relationships: Becky has always lived in her "perfect" older sister’s shadow. Now, their shared secrets will either bring them closer than ever or tear their family apart.
• Grief and Loss for Young Readers: This beautiful and poignant novel gently explores the aftermath of a tragedy and a family’s journey through love and loss.
• Jewish Culture and Family Life: An authentic look at a modern Jewish family, from the pressures of being a rabbi's daughter to the meaningful traditions of a bat mitzvah and sitting shiva.
• Finding Your Voice: For Becky, playing the flute is the one place she feels like herself. It’s a story about finding the courage to speak the truth, even when it’s hard.