Finding Famous

Iranian diasporic culture collides with Hollywood life in this over-the-top children’s debut by Jalili (Just Send the Text, for adults). On Josie Lawrence’s 18th birthday, she receives a letter from her “deceased estranged biological father” and learns that he was beloved reality TV dad Ali Mashad. The revelation leaves Josie reeling, partially because Ali was already married to the Mashad matriarch when he had an affair with Josie’s late mother, and partially because agreeing to do just one season on the family’s reality show could earn Josie $40 million. Though “becoming tight with these mega celebrities feels even more fake than the money,” she accepts, hoping to alleviate her stepfather’s debt, save up for college tuition, and get to know her three half sisters. But Josie is caught unawares by the fame, a crush (that’s “like, low-key incest”), and dramatic secrets that challenge her perception of her mother and the Mashads. Lines that casually pathologize characters’ behaviors occasionally clash with Josie’s otherwise conscientious narration. Still, Jalili ascribes depth and nuance to the Persian American cast and, as a treat for die-hard fans of media glamour, peppers the text with tongue-in-cheek nods to Keeping Up with the Kardashians, Gossip Girl, and The Princess Diaries. Ages 12–up. Agent: Amy Bishop-Wycisk, Dystel, Goderich, & Bourret. (July)