Face Forward #2 (Abby in Between)

3.3

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Author(s)

Megan E. Bryant

Publisher

Penguin Workshop

Genre(s)

Age Range

Release Date

December 30, 2025

ISBN

978-0593226551

Buy This Book

In the second book of this satisfying young middle-grade series, Abby McAdams has to deal with a lack of privacy, the onset of puberty, and all the other problems that can come with being a preteen!

Abby McAdams knows that BIG things are heading her way.

Her eleventh birthday. Fifth-grade graduation. The end of elementary school! There's also the end-of-year overnight camping trip, and she can't wait to practice her science skills. Additionally, Abby suspects she’s probably going to get her period any day now. But after a few false alarms, she's not quite so sure. Can Abby navigate new emotions, friendship dynamics, and her changing body—all while figuring out what kind of person she wants to be?

With plenty of humor and heart, this is an encouraging story of self-discovery, transformations, and forging your own path.

Editor review

1 review

Honest and Relatable

March 20, 2026 (Updated: June 15, 2026)

Overall rating

3.3

Plot

4.0

Characters

3.0

Writing Style

3.0

Illustrations/Photos (if applicable)

N/A

Abby in Between: Face Forward is the second book in Megan E. Bryant’s middle-grade series. It follows tween Abby as she navigates growing up—friend drama, family squabbles, and the approach of puberty.

Abby is a relatable protagonist. She’s often annoyed by her mother, loses her temper with her brother, and overthinks life’s details. Her awkward, authentic journey will resonate with readers.

Bryant tackles difficult topics with refreshing straightforwardness and sensitivity. She normalizes conversations about periods and body changes, providing a resource for young readers as they navigate their own transformations. Given the book's 7-11 target age range, parents of younger children not yet ready for details on puberty should be forewarned.

Tween friendships can be challenging, and Abby’s complex relationship with Savannah is proof of that. Although they are in the same friend group, Savannah often exhibits "mean girl" behavior, making them more "frenemies" than supportive allies. By showing Abby’s internal struggle to maintain her kindness despite Savannah’s nastiness, the story offers hope to a reader feeling caught in the middle of a complicated friend group.

Overall, Abby In Between Face Forward is a relatable, honest, and much-needed story for any reader navigating the messy and often confusing 'in-between' years.