The Zuzu Secret is an engaging middle grade story by Miriam Chernick. Released 6th May 2025 by Charlesbridge, it's 272 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.
This is a dual POV format book with siblings who are relatable and believable. The book makes quite a lot of good and thoughtful points without ever being preachy or strident. When is it ok to keep secrets, how can we resolve conflict constructively and sensitively, pet care and responsibility? There's also an admirable amount of content about living with disability (Josie's brother, Abe, has Prader-Willi syndrome and the author does a good job of showing some of the realities and how they impact Josie and her family).
Four and a half stars. This would be a great choice for public or school library acquisition, and would also make a great story-time discussion book project. It's aimed at middle grade readers, circa 10-12 year olds, but there are a number of very good takeaways for readers of all ages.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
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