Book Description

"Surrounded by strong women who remind the young teen that she always has options, Serenity grows in quiet fortitude as she becomes more committed to her church and personal ethos and tries to find her momma’s legacy beyond shoes, nightmares and secrets. By facing difficult questions, she discovers that individual moments in life, like the ingredients in her favorite red velvet cake, may be unsavory, but combined together, they create a delicious experience. Warm, rich and satisfying."—Kirkus Reviews

"Packed with events, details, and revelations, this first-person novel creates a believable portrayal of Serenity, struggling through a difficult time but drawing strength from her wise, loving African American family and their broader community."— Booklist

“Serenity Evans is a strong African-American character who will resonate with girls who are facing transitions of their own, large or small. The overall message of staying true to one’s self is strong and reassuring. This debut novel is an excellent choice for libraries serving urban populations, as well as those serving faith-based communities.”—School Library Journal

"The author is a natural storyteller, weaving the details of the daily life of an extended African American family into a complex and often unjust society. Her characters, even as seen through the eyes of eighth-grade Serenity, are believable, multifaceted, and unpredictable. While the events, setting, and characters of this story are definitely contemporary, the tale is timeless."—VOYA