Your Turn Marisol Rainey
by Erin Entrada Kelly; illus. by the author
Primary, Intermediate    Greenwillow    160 pp.
8/25    9780063337213    $18.99

On the last day of spring vacation, Marisol and her best friend, Jada, decide that they will adopt “new and improved” personalities. To satisfy their plan, Marisol, usually quiet and reserved, vows to raise her hand five times on their first day back at school, but mean girl Evie Smythe makes fun of her, calling her Marisol “Brainey.” Shy Marisol soon discovers an even bigger problem—stage fright—after her teacher announces a haiku-writing assignment to be shared in front of the class. Marisol’s anxiety about performing triggers writer’s block, increasing her apprehension. Kelly incorporates academic content—such as the form of a haiku, the definition of a biography, and the number of facets in a dragonfly’s eyes—naturally into the narrative, allowing some readers to feel in-the-know and others the opportunity to encounter such information. Marisol perseveres with her writing and, following her mother’s advice, memorizes her haiku, practices saying it at home, and takes deep breaths while reciting it. She also comes to a new understanding with her nemesis, Evie. With its uncluttered layout, generous illustrations, and honest portrayal of a sensitive young girl, this series entry has much to offer.

From the November/December 2025 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.