“Fun and juicy.”—New York Times

“A solid story of summer growth and exploration.”—Kirkus Reviews

Marigold Johnson is looking forward to a future full of family, friends, and fashion—but what will she do when it all explodes in her face? When she discovers that her entire life is a lie?

Paula Chase, the author of So Done, Dough Boys, and Turning Point, explores betrayal, conformity, and forgiveness—and what it means to be family—in this stand-alone novel perfect for fans of Jason Reynolds, Rebecca Stead, and Renée Watson.

Marigold Johnson can’t wait to attend a special program at her family’s business, Flexx Unlimited, for teens who love fashion. But Mari quickly realizes that she’s out of place compared to the three other trainees—and one girl, Kara, seems to hate her on sight.

As tension builds and the stakes at the program get higher, Mari uncovers exactly why Kara’s been so spiteful. She also discovers some hard truths about herself and her family.

Paula Chase explores complex themes centering on friendships, family, and what it means to conform to fit in. Keeping It Real is also a powerful exploration of what happens when parents pick and choose what they shield their children from. Timely and memorable, Paula Chase’s character-driven story touches on creativity, art, fashion, and music. A great choice for the upper middle grade audience.

What happens when the girl who hates you holds the truth to your entire life?

Secret Sister Story: Mari thinks Kara is just a rival at the summer fashion program. She has no idea they share a father—or that her whole world is built on a lie.
Navigating Class and Identity: As Mari splits her time between her wealthy private school and her family's roots, she's forced to figure out what it really means to be "Black enough."
Hip-Hop, Art, and Fashion: Set against the backdrop of her family's hip-hop media empire, Flexx Unlimited, this character-driven story is a love letter to creativity and style.
Complex Friendships: Perfect for middle school readers who love realistic stories about the ups and downs of friendship, forgiveness, and figuring out who has your back.