Blue Beach

Actor Parsons (Clouds over California) makes her YA debut with an evocative, socially conscious murder mystery set against the racially charged backdrop of 1929 Santa Monica. Fifteen-year-old Blue, whose family owns Blue Beach—the only stretch of sand open to Black residents in Southern California—finds her summer upended when she and her friend Ben discover the body of white teen Dottie on the shore. Fearing violent retaliation from white neighbors, the pair move the body. When evidence reveals that Dottie had asked Ben to meet her at the beach prior to her death, Ben goes into hiding as suspicions and threats run rampant. Guilt by association jeopardizes Blue, her family, and their livelihood, which is further imperiled by a white land developer’s plot to take ownership of the beach. Determined to clear Ben’s name and protect her community, Blue follows her sole clue—a ruby earring found in Dottie’s mouth—into a web of secrets. Despite predictable plotting and an overly tidy resolution, anticipatory language and Blue’s steadfast pursuit of truth lend the narrative momentum and heart, culminating in an appealing, worthwhile offering. Ages 12–up. (June)