A delightful middle-grade novel that centers on a gay Italian American tween navigating family drama, friendship complications, and first crushes. The story follows his heartfelt attempt to save his family's pizzeria by entering a reality TV show, all while dealing with his parents' separation and the complexities of young love. It's an engaging read, especially on audio, though the main character's tendency to whine might put off some readers. Overall, it's a solid choice for fans of Ronnie Riley and Phil Stamper. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy in exchange for my honest review!

A heartwarming and tender middle grade novel featuring a gay Italian American tween who tries hard to save his family's pizzaria by getting the restuarant on a reality tv show while his parents become separated and his best friend falls for the boy he has a crush on. Good on audio and perfect for fans of authors like Ronnie Riley or Phil Stamper. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!

Pretty good middle grade! Deals with a lot of issues: parent neglect, anger, loneliness, jealousy, friendships, etc. Main character seemed a little too whiny, but that could have just been the narrator.