The story is told from the points of view of two pairs of
siblings. Sophie and her younger brother Gus live next door to Luke and his
younger sister Harper. Each character presents a unique personality with
different points of view that are shared in alternating chapters. Luke is neurodivergent
and doesn’t like being the focus of attention. In contrast, Harper is obsessed
with acting, and her impulsiveness creates the plot’s conflict. Gus spends all
of his time with soccer practice, but he wants to explore other interests; he
wins a sixth-grade creative writing award that comes with a summer workshop.
Finally, Sophie is a cautious character, most concerned about getting in
trouble and losing her parents' trust.
One of Luke and Harper’s mothers is very protective, and the
book opens with a list of her rules for the kids staying home alone. Harper
already has a secret social media account, and it’s her idea to make a video. All
of the kids are worried about viewers identifying them (they have over a
million hits), but for different reasons. Luke and Sophie’s reasons are obvious,
and Gus and Harper don’t want the complications that fame will bring. They wear
costumes and cover their faces in the videos, so they hope that’s enough to remain anonymous.
However, readers know a problem will eventually
arise when an online viewer says, “Is it just me or is there something SO familiar
about this video?”
What didn’t work as well:
The conflict is not especially gripping, as the characters deal
with friendship issues. They work well together in the beginning, but the
pressure of topping their previous posts affects their priorities.
The final verdict:
The focus on social media will appeal to today’s young readers. Telling
the story from distinctly different points of view will also allow them to
connect with the characters. I recommend you give this book a shot.
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