Bringing Back Kay-Kay By Dev Kothari

In the vibrant backdrop of modern-day India, The Secrets of Kay-Kay follows Lena, a young girl who finally steps into the spotlight when her older brother, Karthik—known as Kay-Kay—leaves for camp. Relishing the newfound attention from her parents, Lena secretly wishes her brother wouldn’t return. But when the train arrives without him, a wave of guilt and fear washes over her. The police label him a runaway, but Lena refuses to believe her beloved Kay-Kay has simply vanished.

Determined to uncover the truth, Lena embarks on a daring quest to find her brother. She delves into his mysterious poems, interrogates his friends, and retraces his steps, all while encountering shadowy figures that deepen the mystery. With each revelation, Lena unearths secrets about Kay-Kay that challenge her perception of him as the golden child of the family.

As she navigates the complexities of their sibling bond, Lena discovers not just the truth about Kay-Kay, but also profound lessons about self-worth and resilience. With its brisk pacing and beautifully crafted narrative, this middle-grade debut is a heart-stopping adventure that captures the essence of family ties and the courage it takes to confront the unknown. As Lena fights to bring her brother home, she learns that love and understanding can often be hidden beneath layers of mystery.