Hidden Truths - by Elly Swartz

About the Book

"Dani and Eric have been best friends since Dani moved next door in second grade--until one summer when everything changes."--

Book Synopsis

How far would you go to keep a promise? Told from alternating points of view, Hidden Truths is a story of changing friendships, the lies we tell, the secrets we keep, and the healing power of forgiveness.

Dani and Eric have been best friends since Dani moved next door in second grade. They bond over donuts, comic books, and camping on the Cape.

Until one summer when everything changes.

Did Eric cause the accident that leaves Dani unable to do the one thing in the world she most cares about? The question plagues him, and he will do anything to get answers about the explosion that injured her. But Dani is hurting too much to want Eric to pursue the truth--she just wants to shut him out and move on. Besides, Eric has a history of dropping things he starts. Eric knows that and is determined that this will be the one time he follows through.

But what if his pursuit brings him into direct conflict with another friend? Where does Eric's loyalty really lie?

Review Quotes

Praise for Hidden Truths

★ "A warm testament to the healing power of mutual respect--and doughnuts."--Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ "Swartz's latest is realistic fiction at its best."--SLJ, starred review

"This is an incredible story of friendship, forgiveness, and loss. Readers will find it difficult to put down."--Erin Entrada Kelly, Newbery-winning author of Hello, Universe

"This novel has it all! Suspense, humor, and so much heart. Swartz perfectly captures the joys and pressures of being twelve. What does it mean to be a true friend? Can real friendship withstand anything? These forever questions are explored tenderly yet honestly in what's sure to be a forever favorite book."--Jennifer Ziegler, author of Worser

"Readers will resonate with the message about showing up first for yourself, and believing in the power to heal the heart."--Sydney Taylor Schmooze

About the Author

Elly Swartz lives in Massachusetts and is happily married with two grown sons, a beagle named Lucy, and a pup named Baxter Bean. Dear Student, called a "heartfelt story with a fresh plot" by Parents Magazine, was her latest novel. She is also the author of Finding Perfect, Smart Cookie, and Give and Take, novels for middle-grade readers.