It is 1950, and 15-year-old Kate Dinsmore wants to become a journalist. But, her tobacco-farming father can't afford to send her to college. She devises a plan to move from rural North Carolina to her wealthy grandparents' home in Charlotte in hopes of gaining their financial support. Now she has a new set of problems. How can she please her society-conscious grandmother and conform to her new classmates' lifestyles? She meets Lillian, her grandmother's teenage maid, and in spite of their racial differences, they form a tentative friendship. While exploring her grandmother's attic, Kate unearths a secret that rocks her world and Lillian's too. The shocking discovery reveals half-truths that threaten the girls' friendship. What will Kate do when she must choose between Lillian and her new society friends? Through a mentorship with a newspaper editor, Kate realizes that journalism requires honesty. But, the risks of truth-telling make Kate question herself. If she reveals what she has learned, what price will she pay? ⚠ Content Rating for Half-Truths - Young Adult Half-Truths is a historical fiction novel for young adult readers (13+), set in the 1950s American South. It contains themes that reflect the realities of the time period, including: Racial discrimination and segregation - Includes historically accurate language and depictions of segregation. - The Ku Klux Klan (KKK) and racial violence - References to the KKK's presence, intimidation, and racial injustice. - Historical language - The terms colored and Negro are used within the story to maintain historical accuracy. - Themes of prejudice and injustice - Explores societal norms and the impact of racism in the 1950s. - Mention of a slave having a child by a slave owner - This is an integral part of the generational trauma explored in the book. This book is written with sensitivity and historical accuracy, aiming to encourage critical thinking, empathy, and discussions about past and present social issues. Recommended for ages 13 and up. 2025 NC AAUW Young People's Literature Award 2025 Award of Excellence from the North Carolina Society of Historians 2025 Bronze medalist for the Coming of Age category from Readers' Favorite "Synopsis: In Half-Truths , Carol Baldwin masterfully weaves a narrative that transcends time, inviting young readers to explore the intricate tapestry of 1950s North Carolina. At the heart of this interesting tale is Kate Dinsmore, a spirited 15-year-old aspiring to become a journalist. Her journey, filled with the challenges of her family's modest means and the hope of her move to her affluent grandparents' home in Charlotte, is one that many young readers can relate to. However, the world she enters is one of stark contrasts, where societal expectations loom large, and the unspoken truths of her lineage surface. Through her growing friendship with Lillian, the maid who becomes both confidante and kin, Kate's journey is not just about ambition; it's a profound exploration of identity and belonging. This novel is a valuable resource for educators and parents interested in literature that addresses social issues. It invites readers to reflect on the complexities of race, privilege, and the often-painful quest for authenticity as they unearth family secrets that intertwine their fates. Baldwin tackles these themes with sensitivity and insight, encouraging a dialogue about the realities of our past and the courage required to challenge the status quo. Critique: Half-Truths is more than just a story; it is a call to action for young minds to question, to seek the truth, and to forge their paths amidst the half-truths that life presents. This book promises to resonate deeply with readers, inspiring them to confront their truths and understand the world around them with greater clarity and compassion. It's a powerful reminder that they can shape their own narratives and make a difference in the world. Carol Baldwin has skillfully woven a tapestry of storytelling that resonates deeply with readers. Her latest work is a heartfelt exploration of the complexities of friendship, a theme that is universally experienced, and the societal pressures that often threaten to unravel it. The characters she has brought to life are not merely figures on a page but embody grace, resilience, and authenticity. As they navigate the tumultuous waters of societal expectations, their unwavering bond becomes a beacon of hope and inspiration. This story invites us to reflect on our relationships and the strength found in unity, reminding us that genuine friendship can withstand even the harshest storms. Prepare to be captivated by Baldwin's poignant prose and the profound messages that linger long after turning the last page." -- Midwest Book Review "...the narrative's intersectionality regarding race, class, and gender complicates the trope, posing a question too few white-centric historical novels ask: What does it mean to benefit f