Seven Minutes in Candyland - by Brian Wasson (Hardcover)

About the Book

"Sophomore Kalvin Shmelton has finally perfected his underground candy-selling hustle at school. He keeps his prices reasonable, his inventory fresh, and himself out of the drama. But when a heartbroken Sterling Glistern, Kal's longtime crush, barges into the storage closet where he keeps his candy supply, a new source of income unexpectedly presents itself: relationship therapist. He only meant to help Sterling realize she's dating a jerk, and maybe win her over, but news spreads fast that Kalvin's not just the master of sweets--but hearts, too"--

Book Synopsis

"A debut with razor-sharp wit and irresistible charm. Get ready to be swept off your feet by this heart-stopping rom-com that will have you falling head over heels with Wasson's fresh voice." --Kim Johnson, author of This Is My America

This multilayered YA rom-com about follows Kalvin, a guy navigating his parents' impending separation, racial dynamics in his mostly white high school, and a side hustle as a relationship therapist who also sells candy to his patients in need...one of whom is his crush.

Sophomore Kalvin Shmelton has finally perfected his underground candy-selling hustle at school. He keeps his prices reasonable, his inventory fresh, and himself out of the drama. But when a heartbroken Sterling Glistern--Kal's longtime crush--barges into the storage closet where he keeps his candy supply, a new source of income unexpectedly presents itself: relationship therapist. He only meant to help Sterling realize she's dating a jerk--and maybe win her over--but news spreads fast that Kalvin's not just the master of sweets...but hearts, too! And as the son of two famous therapists, he leans into this newfound reputation and the money that comes with it.

The truth, however, is that Kalvin's parents' "perfect" marriage is crumbling. He was supposed to woo the girl of his dreams, fix his parents' relationship, and lend a listening ear to a school full of heartbroken teens. But a jealous boyfriend, a vengeful competitor, and Kalvin's own growing ego threaten those plans, forcing Kal to rethink all he thought he knew about friendship, family, and love.

One candy-selling side hustle. Two therapists for parents. And a plan to fix everything that's about to go spectacularly wrong.

• A First Crush: He's been crushing on Sterling Glistern since sixth grade. Now she's barged into his closet, heartbroken over another guy, and Kalvin sees his chance--if he can just give her the right advice.
• Young Entrepreneur: Kalvin isn't just selling candy; he's building an empire to rival the school's official fundraisers. But when his side hustle accidentally turns him into the school's go-to relationship therapist, things get complicated.
• Witty Banter: A fresh, funny voice perfect for fans of contemporary YA rom-coms, full of laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt conversations about life and love.
• Navigating Parents' Separation: While he's busy fixing everyone else's love life, Kalvin's own family is falling apart. He's got a secret plan to save his parents' marriage, but he's running out of time and money.

Review Quotes

"Wasson's feel-good debut deftly balances humor with common teen concerns, making this a joy to read. Fun, relatable, and with a dash of romance, Wasson's novel hits the mark."

- Booklist (starred review)

"A debut with razor-sharp wit and irresistible charm. Get ready to be swept off your feet by this heart-stopping rom-com that will have you falling head over heels with Wasson's fresh voice." - Kim Johnson, author of This is My America

"A love story that delivers on the sweet, confronts life's sour notes, and leaves you craving for another bite. It's better than any sugar rush." - Jumata Emill, author of The Black Queen

"Wasson puts together a clever novel that crafts a unique pathway to teen romance and places Black characters at the forefront of the plot. -An excellent -selection of diverse representation. A must-add to any YA collection." - School Library Journal

"Wasson's debut features an empathetic protagonist who advocates for the destigmatization of mental health care. An effervescent story of self-discovery that showcases the importance of finding strength in vulnerability." - Kirkus Reviews