A fun read with some serious undertones. When Isabel's parents decide to open a cupcake shop, Isabel is taken on a roller coaster ride of emotions as she steers the crooked path of her mother's depression and her own desire to travel. Never dull, the pages fly by as the reader experiences the ups and downs with Isabel.

Loved it! And I know middle grade girls will too! ( )

This is a great chapter book for tween-aged girls. It's got an awesome heartfelt story, and the baking imagery is sure to make your mouth water! ( )

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Cute, short book about a mom and daughter who have very different interests. Isabel's mom loves baking and Isabel just wants to get out of her small town and see the world. Isabel's mom has good days and bad days, suffering from something that looks like bipolar disease. She gets big ideas and goes all out, but then gets nervous and wants to quit. Her latest venture is a cupcake business. She purchases a building and starts renovating, when true to form, her mom wants to bail. Meanwhile, Isabel has learned about a kids' baking competition. Winners will receive an all-expense paid trip to the bake-off in New York City. Isabel is determined to win, so she can get out of Willow, Oregon, even if just for a few days. Then she starts to wonder. Is she trying to get away from Willow or her mom?

Chapter titles are fun cake flavors. Two actual recipes are included at the end. Younger middle grade girls who have any interest in baking will enjoy this one. ( )