JUST SAY IT LIKE IT IS

Just say it like it is is GiGi's motto.  

In life, there's always the unexpected events and the secrets that keep people from saying it like it is. these things make a person think of the what ifs.  

What if there are secrets that you don't know about?  
What if she made a new friend?  
What if the mean girl is not mean anymore?  
What if your Mama is not who you thought she was?
What if someone lies to you?

Tucked between a collection of recipes from her mom is the search for new beginnings, old secrets and a world turned upside down.  The Truth About Twinkie Pie by Kat Yeh is a great realistic and angst ridden story for readers in 6th-8th grades. 

Spoiler alert!!! 
There's teen pregnancy, gay best friend, adoption and rebellious children.  

A FAMILY OF MALES

The Misadventures of the Family Fletcher by Dana Alison Levy

2 dads, 4 brothers (different ages, different cultures), 1 grumpy new neighbor, 1 imaginary friend (maybe), many pets, a new school, a broken body part, etc .  You get the idea.  

This is a year in the life of the Family Fletcher.  

Sam - 12 years old athlete loves soccer and musical theater. 
Eli - 10 years old intellectual who thinks he's made the wrong choice. 
Jax - 12 years old with a project he keeps putting off.  
Frog - kindergartener with an imaginary friend or two?  

You'll laugh.  
You'll cry.  
You'll cheer. 
You'll empathize.  

For 6th grades and up.