Instafamous by Erika J. Kendrick

Also available from:

On Sale: Oct 1, 2024
Page Count: 304 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
ISBN-13: 9780316566056

This funny and fabulous novel about a middle school diva’s hunt for the spotlight speaks to the importance of friendship and family—even in the midst of fame.

Lyric Whitney Houston Darby has always wanted to be famous, just like her superstar mom. So when the hottest music-competition TV show announces auditions in town, it’s her chance to compete—and maybe even score a record deal.

There are just a couple of problems: First, the show requires industry experience. This means Lyric has to audition for her school’s production of The Wiz…as if middle school musicals aren’t totally beneath her. Second, she needs to mega-boost her platform on Instagram. Fast. This show is an influencers-only event!

Luckily she has her besties at her side! Or… does she? As Lyric starts to get everything she ever wanted, her BFFs are coping with their own challenges. Will Lyric be there to lift them up, or is she about to learn the real cost of being instafamous?

This bubbly story is as wise as it is witty, reminding readers of the importance of mental health, and that what you want isn’t always what you need.

For more adventures at Valentine Middle, don't miss these school stories from Erika J. Kendrick:
Squad Goals
Cookie Monsters

Genre:

“Witty prose and modern preteen slang make this an enjoyable and entertaining read…A relatable story of navigating ambition and relationships, with valuable mental health representation.”
Kirkus
Praise for Cookie Monsters

"A tenderhearted novel…concentrating on Brooklyn’s emotional growth, [while] the positive first-person narrative sheds light on the importance of loyal friends, mental health support, and cherishing a loved one’s memory."
Publishers Weekly
"The fast pace and conversational tone that uses up-to-the-minute language will draw readers in. It shines [a spotlight] on mental health and the importance of community. An appealing read, especially for those looking to start a conversation about grief and anxiety."
Kirkus Reviews
“Kendrick explores both what it takes to be a good friend and the difference between being confident and being a diva...Lyric's rise and fall with fame shows the dangers of suppressing emotions and taking people for granted, with an emphasis on mental health and therapy.”

Booklist