Tuesday, June 16, 2015

True Colors by Jill Santopolo -- ADVISABLE

Santopolo, Jill True Colors (Sparkle Spa #4), 129 pgs. Aladdin (Simon & Schuster), 2014. $5.99. Content: G.

Sisters Aly and Brooke run Sparkle Spa, a kids' nail salon, together. But when Brooke breaks her arm right before an especially busy week, Aly has to recruit help -- and fast! Brooke discovers that Aly's been making a lot of executive decisions without her, and she snaps. Can the two girls come to an understanding and save their business? Or is Sparkle Spa over for good?

True Colors is a great addition to the series. It deals with topics many readers will be familiar with, such as broken bones, jealousy, team work, and making difficult decisions. While Brook and Aly are a bit unrealistically mature at times, they both make understandable mistakes that worsen the crisis and leave room for good character growth. The ending feels satisfying, and the business terminology and wisdom sprinkled throughout could inform and encourage some budding entrepreneurs. A section at the end tells readers how to give the special heart manicure and pedicure featured in the book.

EL -- ADVISABLE. Reviewer: Caryn

No comments: