“Fun and juicy.”—New York Times

“A solid story of summer growth and exploration.”—Kirkus Reviews

Marigold Johnson is looking forward to a future full of family, friends, and fashion—but what will she do when it all explodes in her face? When she discovers that her entire life is a lie?

Paula Chase, the author of So Done, Dough Boys, and Turning Point, explores betrayal, conformity, and forgiveness—and what it means to be family—in this stand-alone novel perfect for fans of Jason Reynolds, Rebecca Stead, and Renée Watson.

Marigold Johnson can’t wait to attend a special program at her family’s business, Flexx Unlimited, for teens who love fashion. But Mari quickly realizes that she’s out of place compared to the three other trainees—and one girl, Kara, seems to hate her on sight.

As tension builds and the stakes at the program get higher, Mari uncovers exactly why Kara’s been so spiteful. She also discovers some hard truths about herself and her family.

Paula Chase explores complex themes centering on friendships, family, and what it means to conform to fit in. Keeping It Real is also a powerful exploration of what happens when parents pick and choose what they shield their children from. Timely and memorable, Paula Chase’s character-driven story touches on creativity, art, fashion, and music. A great choice for the upper middle grade audience.

What happens when the girl who seems to have it all finds out her whole life is built on a lie?

• A Shocking Secret Sister: Marigold thinks her biggest problem is Kara, the new girl at the summer fashion program who hates her on sight. The truth is much, much closer to home.
• Complex Friendship Drama: As the tension with Kara escalates, Mari’s relationship with her best friend Justice is tested, forcing her to question who she can really trust.
• Private School and Class Divides: A powerful look at the pressure to fit in, as Marigold navigates her elite private school, her family’s hip-hop legacy, and the judgment that comes with both.
• A Powerful Coming-of-Age Story: Perfect for fans of Jason Reynolds and Renée Watson, this novel tackles tough questions about family, forgiveness, and what it truly means to be real.