The Perfect Secret (The Perfect Score, #2) by Rob Buyea
Published by Delacorte Books for Young Readers on October 9th 2018
ISBN: 1524764590
Pages: 384
Goodreads

The Perfect Secret focuses on a group of seventh grade students trying to discover why two of their teachers (who are related) will no longer speak to each other.  Throughout the book, the students grapple with a multitude of relevant issues as they slowly bring their beloved teachers back together. The novel is engaging and quick paced with each chapter narrated by one of the five students (Gavin, Scott, Natalie, Randi, Trevor).  Some of the topics addressed are bullying, racism, dementia, illegal immigration, secrecy, illiteracy, a missing parent, good sportsmanship, broken family relationships, and middle school romantic relationships. Positive messages fill the pages of this novel (knock down fences by being nice) as well as many positive examples of handling extremely tough situations.  Readers in grades 5-8 will enjoy identifying with these well developed characters whether they are experiencing a similar situation or just love football and gymnastics. Teachers and librarians may be disappointed with the quickly and easily resolved issues as well as the superficial coverage of the topics. Nonetheless, the amount of issues discussed will provide a gateway for students and adults to examine relevant issues.

Reviewed by Heather Hale, Easton School District, Easton