Books like Gabriela by Varian Johnson
In Gabriela, Gabby Johnson, the spirited 12‑year‑old behind American Girl’s 2017 Girl of the Year, juggles homework, school leadership, intensive dance classes, and rehearsals for a spoken‑word competition. When a coveted dance opportunity arrives, she must decide whether to add it to her already crowded schedule. The novel follows her struggle to maintain friendships—especially with her best friend Teagen—while discovering a growing passion for poetry over the rigorous demands of ballet. As the competition approaches, Gabby questions whether her dreams have shifted and learns the value of balancing ambition, friendship, and self‑discovery.
First publish date: 2017
Genre: Children's Fiction/Children's Adventure
Authors: Varian Johnson
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