A young girl wakes up six months in the future, with her friends no longer speaking to her, leading her to investigate the mysterious time jump with the help of an old friend. The story delves into themes of friendship, trust, courage, and self-discovery, blending magical elements with relatable middle-grade experiences in a captivating and heartwarming tale.

Reader Review Summary

Janae Marks has crafted a delightfully whimsical and heartwarming tale with "A Split Second." This middle grade novel deftly blends elements of fantasy, mystery, and poignant drama surrounding the complexities of friendship.

The premise instantly intrigues - protagonist Elise wakes up one morning to find that six months have mysteriously passed, her former best friends are no longer speaking to her, and she has seemingly joined a photography club with no recollection of doing so. As Elise grapples with understandably feeling untethered from her own life, she reconnects with her old friend Cora to investigate the baffling circumstances behind her time jump.

What ensues is a highly imaginative and well-paced adventure filled with magical realism. Marks injects the perfect amount of wonder with the introduction of talismans that may hold the key to unraveling Elise's lost memories. Readers will be swept up in the mystery alongside the likable protagonists as they follow a trail of clues and shocking revelations.

However, at its core, this novel is a beautiful exploration of the joys, pains, and invaluable lessons that friendship imparts. The authentic depictions of the drifting of bonds, misunderstandings, and reconciliations that occur during the tumultuous middle school years will deeply resonate with the target audience. Marks' chameleonic ability to capture young voices rings true.

The dual narration from Elise and Cora's perspectives proves an inspired choice, allowing the reader to be intimately invested in both characters' journeys of self-discovery and personal growth. Both girls are admirable heroes that children will find eminently relatable as they navigate changing friendship dynamics with maturity and courage.

On a craft level, Marks is a talent to be celebrated. Her zippy plotting will keep even restless readers hooked, while her warm humor provides plentiful laughs. She has a knack for grounding the fantastical through a strong sense of place and authentic family dynamics rarely seen in middle grade fiction. "A Split Second" is a sheer delight that existing fans and newcomers alike are sure to devour.

In essence, this novel checks every box one could want from a middle grade offering - it's got big heart, creativity, suspense, and an uplifting message about appreciating true friends despite the rocky phases. Mark it down as a must-read when it releases in Fall 2024. Highly recommended for ages 8-12.