It Happened on Saturday by Sydney Dunlap

Release: February 21, 2023
Format: Ebook
Publisher: Jolly Fish Press
Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
Find it at: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | IndieBound

Thirteen-year-old Julia would much rather work with horses at the rescue barn than worry about things like dating and makeup. But when her BFF meets a boy at camp, Julia’s determined not to get left behind. After a makeover from her older sister, she posts a picture of herself online and gets a comment from Tyler—a seemingly nice kid who lives across town. As they DM more and more, Julia’s sure that Tyler understands her in a way her family never has. Even better, their relationship earns her tons of attention at school.

Then Julia finds out Tyler’s true plan, and her world is turned upside down. She fiercely guards her secret, but could her silence allow her friends to fall into the same trap?

In this timely, heartfelt debut, author Sydney Dunlap tells a story of a middle-school girl who narrowly escapes becoming a victim of human trafficking and must find her way toward hope and healing after this traumatic event.

About the Author:

Sydney Dunlap is a former elementary school teacher who has worked with at-risk youth in a variety of settings, and she enjoys reading and writing heartfelt, hopeful fiction that expands young readers’ awareness of tough topics. She is a published poet and has also written for a newspaper.

A lifelong animal lover, Sydney lives with her family in a home where the dogs and cats outnumber the people.

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook

It Happened on Saturday Review:

Firstly, this book is one that all tweens and young adults should read. The author has beautifully showcased the dangers of human trafficking and how even someone knowledgeable can be impressionable at that age and trust anyone. Moreover, this is not just a book for teens; anyone of any age can feel inspired by reading, as trafficking could happen to anyone if they fall for the wrong person.

Julia is excellent in the role, and I loved how the author portrayed her realistically. Even after the incident, you see how self-conscious and guilty Julia feels for putting herself in that situation and how society can ostracise her even though she is the victim. Another reason why I enjoyed this story is that the author also gives valuable tips on how to deal with stress and anxiety. I loved reading about the therapy sessions that Julia attends and found them helpful to implement in my life.

The author also wrote the supporting cast well. I enjoyed Julia’s bond with Nori and how she feels like the third wheel when Nori finds someone new. Even with characters like Maria and Gabi, it was interesting to see how Julia tested fresh waters when she searched for new friends. I also loved the complex relationship between Julia and her parents and how she has trouble bonding with her mother for various reasons. One of my favorite moments was when her father talked to her about his past experiences, and they connected.

Overall, “It Happened on Saturday” is a realistic middle-grade fiction, and I recommend everyone check this out.