Summer of a Thousand Pies by Margaret Dilloway
Published by Balzer + Bray on April 16th 2019
ISBN: 0062803468
Pages: 378
Goodreads

After her dad is arrested (again), 12 year old Cady winds up being taken in by her aunt Shell, whom she has never met. Throughout the summer, Cady helps Shell and her partner Suzanne run their struggling small town bake shop all the while learning about the complexities of family, friendship, and the power of community. 

Current topical aspects woven into this story include undocumented immigrants and celiac disease. Middle school students will identify with the reluctance to ask for help even when you need it most and the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity. Aspiring bakers, or even just those with a sweet tooth, won’t be able to resist this treat. Recipes  are even included in the back! Wonderful! 

Grades 5th-8th.

Reviewed by Kerrie Lattari, York Middle School, York