JUNIE

In this poignant, moving coming of age story, Junie is an enslaved teen girl who has spent her childhood in the shadow her “perfect” sister Minnie, and in the company of the plantation owner’s daughter, who considers Junie her friend and confidante. After Bessie’s unexpected death, Junie makes life-altering choices to keep the rest of her family together, even as she must confront her sister’s ghost to become the person she’s meant to be.

Junie is a heartbreaking but hopeful novel set in the pre-Civil War south, filled with powerful teen emotions that are timeless. I loved that the author painted an unflinching, multidimensional portrait of Junie, with her stubbornness and temper, but also her courage, vulnerability and tenderness. Seeing her grow throughout the story made Junie one of my favorite characters I’ve read this year. I especially loved seeing her romance with Caleb unfold, as they encourage each other to dream of the future they deserve. Don’t miss the fascinating author’s note - this novel is based on an actual person. Highly recommend the audio version of this book!

When Caleb and Junie meet, he knocks over a swarming beehive which Junie must calmly reorganize and move its queen. This dramatic but sweet scene inspired these pull apart honeycomb cakes, which are so good with some extra honey drizzled on top! I’m obsessed with these colorful tulips and also this vibrant cover. What beautiful book covers are you loving right now?

This gorgeous honeycomb pan is from Nordicware and comes with a pull apart honey cake recipe enclosed!