The Taylors

Calonita (Charmed) presents an effervescent, heartwarming tale of four tweens named Taylor and their quest to meet their idol, Taylor Swift. Hardcore Swift fan Taylor Bennett--also known as Teffy--is dreading her first day of middle school. The newly minted fifth grader is pleasantly shocked to find, however, that she shares a class with three other devoted Swifties, each of whom is also named Taylor. Teffy, competitive and sporty TS, outgoing Tay Tay, and confident Taylor P. quickly bond over their shared love of music, and Teffy's first-day-of-school promise to herself--"make one friend"--becomes a reality. The group soon makes a pact: if they don't all manage to obtain seemingly elusive tickets to the Indianapolis stop of the Eras Tour, none of them will attend the concert. Everything seems perfect until an unexpected conflict forces Teffy to consider what she's willing to do to keep her newfound friendships and stay true to herself. Rapid-fire, detail-rich scenes depicting typical adolescent setbacks and pitfalls--such as overcoming fears and feeling different from others--make for snappy pacing that draws readers in from the jump. Organic and playful prose renders Teffy's endearing third-person POV while gently presenting lessons about speaking up, apologizing, and taking accountability in this uplifting work. The Taylors cue as racially diverse. Ages 8--12. Agent: Dan Mandel, Sanford J. Greenburger Assoc. (Oct.)

Four girls with the same first name bond over music, middle school, and friendship. A new school year and the dream of attending a Taylor Swift concert set the stage for a sweet, relationship-driven story. Shy, anxious Taylor Bennett, who goes by "Teffy," starts fifth grade feeling out of place--until she meets three other girls named Taylor, each a devoted Swiftie like her. There's loyal, bold athlete Taylor "TS" Shaw, imaginative, fast-talking Taylor "Tay Tay" Johnson, and outspoken, magnetic Taylor Perez. Their shared name and their love of the pop star's lyrics spark an instant connection that helps Teffy push past her fear of making new friends. Together, the Taylors face cafeteria drama, social setbacks, and the ultimate quest: finding affordable tickets to the Eras Tour. The story captures middle school experiences with authenticity and humor, centering on girls who lead with kindness, creativity, and self-empowerment. The conflicts stay age-appropriate--friendship politics, shifting lunch tables, the development of a sense of identity--but the emotional stakes feel real. Teffy's internal monologue, her admiration for her namesake, and her slow-building confidence are especially resonant. Musical references, an inclusive cast (the Taylors are cued white, Black, and Latine), and a cozy Indianapolis school setting enrich the narrative. Concert dreams and friendship bracelets add charm to this upbeat, affirming tale. A delightful celebration of friendship, fandom, and finding the confidence to be yourself.(Fiction. 8-12) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.