The Truth About Twinkie Pie

Gr 6 Up—GiGi (short for Galileo Galilei, a name given in the hope that she would one day become a scientist) moves in with her sister DiDi (short for Delta Dawn) after DiDi wins one million dollars in a cooking show contest. DiDi, who, in the aftermath of their Mama's death, functions as a mother figure for GiGi, is a school drop-out hairstylist. She wants the best for GiGi, so she pulls up their trailer park roots and replants them in expensive New York where brainy GiGi can go to the best private school. GiGi expects to be out of her element in this new environment, until she literally trips her way into a friendship with the coolest boy in school. Trouble is, that friendship also earns her the enmity of mean girl Mace. But when Mace hits it off with DiDi better than GiGi ever has, it's confusing. Then there's the fact that Mama may not be dead after all. While the ending may not exactly surprise, getting there is a delight. GiGi's voice keeps the story light and humorous, in spite of seventh-grade drama and misperceptions. Sprinkled with comfort food recipes for Twinkie Pie, Madder'n Heck Smashed Potatoes, and Tangled-Up Pie (made with spaghetti), and down-home commentary, the plot moves at a steady pace. Endearing characters will keep readers engaged throughout as more than one character learns the true meanng of family and friendship. Recommended for middle school and YA collections.—Katherine Koenig, The Ellis School, PA