Sequins, Secrets, and Silver Linings »

When they meet a Ugandan refugee girl who's an amazing designer, three trendy London teens combine their talents to create some kind of wonderful. A hip, cute, multiculti fashion fairy tale!

Nonie's a freak for fashion. Bleeding-heart Edie wants to green the planet. And starter-starlet Jenny has just landed a small part in a big Hollywood blockbuster. But when these trendy London besties meet a Ugandan refugee girl named Crow, sketching a dress at the Victoria & Albert Museum, their worldview gets a makeover. As they learn about the serious situation in Crow's homeland, they decide to pool their talents to call attention to the crisis. One of Crow's designs on the red carpet at the Oscars--quelle chic way to raise awareness! Now...how to "make it work"?!

"A rags-to-riches tale...adopted by readers of all ages since its release [in Great Britain]." --British Vogue.com

"While it's technically aimed at teenage girls...we suspect that it will be finding its way into many a stylish handbag." --ElleUK.com

"Promises to win the hearts of stylistas of all ages. Feel good and fashion-fabulous? That's a perfect prezzie right there."--MarieClaire.co.uk

Visit the microsite: threadsthebook.com!

Publishers Weekly

Bennett's high-energy debut, which won the Times of London/Chicken House writing contest, is as fast-paced as the world of fashion. Celebrity-obsessed 14-year-old Nonie loves little more than talking fashion with her two best friends: confident and gorgeous Edie, who dreams of working for the U.N., and insecure budding movie star Jenny. All three girls are wrapped up in their privileged lives until they meet 12-year-old Crow, a Ugandan refugee who lives with her aunt. When Nonie discovers that Crow is a talented seamstress and designer, she invites her to use their extra room as a workshop, and Nonie's ex-model mother and fashion-loving grandmother practically adopt Crow, encouraging her to enter an Yves Saint Laurent competition. Nonie is initially self-centered and jealous, but she and her friends combine their passions to make a positive difference. "It's about the things that have inspired you, and how you've put them together in a new way," Nonie says. Studded with descriptions of chic outfits and references to designers, this outing will whet appetites for the next book in the trilogy. Ages 12 up. (Jan.)