Just Be Cool, Jenna Sakai by Debbi Michiko Florence - OPTIONAL

Just Be Cool, Jenna Sakai by Debbi Michiko Florence, 291 pages. Scholastic Press, 2021. $18. 

Language: G (0 swears, 0 “f”); Mature Content: PG (dealing with parents' divorce and aftermath); Violence: G; 

BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS - OPTIONAL 

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE 

As a budding investigative reporter, 13yo Jenna Sakai is sticking to the facts. Relationships always end in heartbreak, of which, her first relationship and her parents’ marriage are proof. She is fine, really, but her best friend Keiko is constantly asking Jenna to talk about her feelings and she would much rather be alone in a little Broadway-themed diner she found. Except her little haven is invaded by another cold, lonely soul, Rin Watanabe. They begin to bond, but Jenna might ruin everything with a new investigative article she is writing. Can Jenna sort out her feelings, figure out her family drama, and still get the story? 

Overall, it’s a cute story with nice Asian American representation. However, I had a hard time believing that Jenna was only thirteen. She definitely talked like a 13yo but everything she was concerned about - winning a scholarship competition, becoming an investigative journalist, going to a diner everyday for hours after school - seemed more suited for an older protagonist. Therefore, I couldn’t decide if I was annoyed at the writing or at the main character. It will appeal to some readers but doesn’t have the literary quality or emotional depth to make it a must-buy. 

Reviewer: BookswithBeddes