The Trouble with Secrets - by Naomi Milliner (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A Jewish girl preparing for her upcoming bat mitzvah tries to keep a secret--along with one of her sister's--in this beautiful coming-of-age contemporary novel that explores change, grief, and the complexities of sibling relationships. A Sydney Taylor Notable Book!

Twelve-year-old Becky has great expectations placed upon her. Not only does she need to be as perfect as her older brother and sister, but her upcoming bat mitzvah needs to be perfect, too. She is the rabbi's daughter, after all. The trouble is, Becky's intentions often lead her astray. At least when she plays the flute, she feels like the best version of herself. Until playing the flute causes Becky to do something not so perfect: keep a secret from her parents.

Then Becky discovers that Sara, her "perfect" sister, has an even bigger secret. One that could turn the family upside down. The sisters couldn't be more ready to keep each other's secret safe...until the excitement turns to guilt, and Becky is forced to make an impossible choice.

When secrets are shared and choices are made, doing the right thing can feel so wrong. And Becky will learn that actions, no matter how well intended, always have consequences.

Review Quotes

"A moving, gorgeous, and life-affirming exploration of grief, faith, and how we can build ourselves a joyous life after everything seems to have fallen to pieces. This book will leave a handprint on your heart." - Jeff Zentner, award-winning author of In the Wild Light

"Heart-wrenching, emotional, compulsively readable. A touching, intimate exploration of universal themes of trust, conformity, and the impact of family dynamics." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)

"I was swept away by Naomi Milliner's The Trouble With Secrets. A moving and heart-opening book, its story and characters are unforgettable. Milliner's intimate focus on love and loss in a close-knit Jewish family makes this a very universal story, written with tremendous grace. It is a beautiful novel that will appeal to readers of all backgrounds who have borne the weight of carrying secrets for too long." - Ruth Behar, author of Pura Belpre Award winner Lucky Broken Girl and Newbery Honor winner Across So Many Seas

"The Trouble With Secrets immediately captures the reader with a vivid, engaging cast of characters who will make their way into your heart and stay there. Becky is a protagonist to root for -- flawed but goodhearted and full of love. Her journey to understand what is right and what matters is one that will resonate with readers and keep them turning pages all the way to the bittersweet finale." - Mari Lowe, author of National Jewish Book Award and Sydney Taylor Book Award winner The Dubious Pranks of Shaindy Goodman and Sydney Taylor Book Award winner Aviva vs. the Dybbuk

"Heartfelt. An intimate, unfiltered look at tragedy and grief in one contemporary family." - Booklist

"The novel's impactful and detailed Jewish representation makes this a story worth reading, and may act as a teaching tool for cultural education and a love letter to Jewish tradition. A rich novel depicting the dangers of keeping secrets and the power of enduring love and promises after sudden loss." - School Library Journal

"Addresses a sensitive topic with a welcome portrayal of characters rethinking long-held assumptions." - Horn Book Magazine

"Offering warmth alongside a detailed account of Jewish traditions, a family trying its best in difficult situations, and a sensitive depiction of grief and its solaces, it's a rich and complex book for readers navigating new independence." - Publishers Weekly (starred review)