From the Desk of Zoe Washington, written by Janae Marks. Katherine Tegen Books, Harper. 2010. $22.99 ages 9 and up

"I've been wondering about 
what you did. I know a little 
about it. I don't want to think
about you being a murderer, 
not when you've been so nice 
to me in these letters. Are you 
sorry you did it? 
Zoe

PS Please send another song. 
I started making a playlist ... "

Zoe is celebrating her 12th birthday when she receives her first letter from her birth father. She has never met Marcus because he was sent to jail before she was born. He is there because he was found guilty of murdering someone. Her grandmother knows about the letters they are writing, and allows Zoe to respond secretly.

There is a lot going on in Zoe's life. It is the summer before 7th grade; she is helping out at a bakery in hopes it will give her the experience she needs to audition for Food Network’s Kids Bake Challenge; she has been in a row with her best friend Trevor and is not speaking to him; and she is keeping a secret from her mom and stepfather about her communications with Marcus. Her mother and stepfather have never wanted any connection between the two. Her grandmother is willing to give Marcus the benefit of the doubt, and with her guidance and knowledge allows the letters to be sent and received - even a few phone calls.

In one of the letters Marcus tells her he is not guilty, as he had an alibi at the time. His lawyer did nothing to check for evidence concerning it.  Zoe wants to believe Marcus, and does. That sets her on a course to get him help and prove his innocence. She informs herself without letting any of her family know what she is doing. As she and Trevor have settled their differences,the two work together to gather the evidence needed. Together they set out to find proof that Marcus is telling the truth.  When they are caught, both are in big trouble. What happens next will please readers.

This is a beautifully written debut novel that is both lovely and compelling. Zoe learns about systemic racism, inequality, family relationships, trust, justice, and making friendships work. She is a terrific character who is kind and compassionate. She has a wonderful, loving family and a stellar best friend.
There is a lot to unpack here. Middle grade readers will find much to discuss together.