While her brother can easily make friends with anyone he speaks to, and her sister is an outspoken activist, Imani is shy and has a harder time talking to people. After her family moves from South Los Angeles to Brooklyn to explore new business opportunities for their food truck, the Calypso Grill, Imani is excited to be in the “fashion capital of the world.” She’s even more excited to learn that her new school will be hosting a fashion competition. The grand prize is a scholarship to her dream school, DeKalb Art and Design High School. But after someone steals her contest design and she’s accused of plagiarism, Imani goes undercover with a secret alias on social media to take on the person who stole her work. She also uses her account to share new designs, messages of positivity, and insights on cultural inspiration versus appropriation. The story moves at a brisk pace, immersing readers in Imani’s colorful world of bold designs, cultural pride (her father is from Barbados, and her mother is from Ghana), and artistic expression. It’s a heartfelt exploration of identity, creativity, and the courage to be seen and to stand up for yourself.
