Mindy’s life takes an unexpected turn when she moves to her dad’s quaint hometown in Illinois. Starting at a new school without any friends is challenging enough, but the real surprise is that the school is housed in an abandoned motel. 

On her first day, Mindy encounters an overly enthusiastic principal celebrating Pirate Day and befriends a mysterious boy who offers her advice from inside a locker. Her opportunity to connect with others arises during the library’s carnival fundraiser, where she partners with Charlie, one of the most popular boys in school.

While Charlie suggests a simple cupcake booth, Mindy dreams bigger. She’s determined to create an epic game for the school carnival, even if it means taking a few risks. Will her ambitious plan win her new friends or push her into taking things too far?

Mindy, a spirited 12-year-old, embarks on an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, friendship, and self-discovery. The story is set against the backdrop of a quirky school in an old hotel.  Themes of feeling out of place and trying too hard unfold as she partners with Charlie for a library fundraiser, aiming to impress with more than just cupcakes. Their budding friendship and Mindy’s trials offer relatable lessons on risk-taking and accountability. Mindy’s partnership with Charlie for the library fundraiser and their task to create something awesome illustrates the power of teamwork. The story delves into deeper issues such as dealing with grief and the loneliness of children from single-parent families, all while maintaining a tone of humor and hope.

Mindy learns valuable lessons about building friendships in her new school and finding her place in the world. From navigating the ups and downs of fitting into discovering the power of teamwork, Mindy discovers the true meaning of friendship with her infectious humor, indomitable spirit, and creativity. Mindy will capture your heart and inspire you to embrace your sense of curiosity and imagination.

Join Mindy on a heartwarming adventure of laughter, friendship, and growth. As she learns from her mistakes, she discovers the value of teamwork and the joy of belonging. Her story, “Dodging Cupcakes,” is a STEM journey that champions creativity, resilience, and cooperation, inspiring young readers to embrace challenges and the spirit of discovery in STEM fields. Through Mindy’s experiences, readers are encouraged to see failure as a stepping stone to success and to appreciate the power of working together to overcome obstacles.