About this book

Getting thrown for a loop!

What is the best part of seventh grade?

A: The cutest boy in school messages you on AIM.

B: You've made the volleyball team and nailed your drama club audition.

C: Your parents recognize how responsible you are and treat you like an adult.

D: SIKE! None of this turns out the way you expect it to!

Seventh grade started out strong, but now Sara is struggling... Because of her volleyball schedule, she may not be cast in the play. And due to her commitment to drama club, she could be benched during the big game. To make matters worse, her crush only seems to talk to her when he needs help in math class. And to top it off, her parents pick and choose when to treat her like a kid or a grown-up.

Sara's finding herself caught in a strange in-between space. Is she an actress or an athlete? A crush or a calculator? An adolescent or an adult? With so many mixed signals, will Sara ever be able to find her place?

In this feel-good follow-up to Mixed Feelings, being a teenage girl has never been so hilarious and harrowing at the same time!

Reviews

"An honest portrayal of adolescence... [Amini's] raw honesty and generous doses of humor offer readers the chance to experience growth alongside Sara, even during an era of dial-up internet and landlines. The delightful artwork enhances the story in every way, adding humor and depth to each character’s emotions." -- School Library Journal

"An authentic and entertaining sequel that will leave readers eager for more." -- Kirkus Reviews

"Amini and her lovable trilingual family are back in this sequel to her memoir Mixed Feelings (2026), which delves further into the deep, dark realm of puberty, responsibilities, and knowing when to do the right thing... A lesson on drawing boundaries, time management, and above all, being true to yourself." -- Booklist

Praise for Mixed Feelings:

A Barnes & Noble Best Kids' Book of 2026 (So Far)

★ "This semi-autobiographical graphic novel celebrates differences and shared experiences, delivering everything that young readers need right now... A wholesome, heartwarming, and authentic look at a multicultural family and community, filled with relatable struggles of puberty, changing friendships, and reminders to readers of the importance of honest communication, arts programs, and finding your people." -- Booklist, starred review

★ "A hilarious, honest exploration of friendship and identity... A funny and poignant graphic memoir, this is a must-buy for every library." -- School Library Journal, starred revew

★ "With a grounded, friendly color palette, this graphic novel is a touching look at multiracial identity... This story is sure to be a balm for mixed and first-generation readers alike who are looking to feel seen and understood." -- The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"A delightful series opener that offers an ideal mix of humor and heart." Kirkus Reviews

"Crisp, saturated cartooning by Amin centers character expression and imparts a lighthearted tone across this slice-of-life offering. Abundant pop culture references pave an accessible path along which Amini tackles issues surrounding immigration, racism, xenophobia, and puberty, culminating in a nostalgic and heartwarming trip down memory lane." -- Publishers Weekly