The Girls of Skylark Lane by Robin Benway
Published by Harper on 10/01/2024
ISBN: 9780063311596
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads

Twelve year old twins Jac and Aggie move with their dads to Skylark Lane in Los Angeles.  The girls quickly befriend other neighborhood girls their age, including a girl they later learn is transgender. They join their unofficial softball team, even though drama often prevents them from practicing.  Things are going well for Jac and Aggie, but they start to realize that they don’t have as much in common as they used to.  They both have loving relationships with their fathers who are able to offer each twin advice and comfort.  This strong family bond helps them when they are forced to suddenly evacuate due to fires.  When they return, the neighborhood girls and their families rally together to support their friends who lost their home.  

This coming of age novel is told in alternating points of view of each sister. This story will resonate with 4th-6th grade girls who are going through puberty and experiencing first crushes.  The friendships the twins make are strong, and though there are misunderstandings, there are also apologies and forgiveness. This sweet and satisfying story is one of resilience, family, and friendship and would be great for any public or school library.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum,  Orono Public Library