Smoke & Mirrors is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard Selection!

Smoke & Mirrors was chosen as a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection. According to JLG, "Nearly 95% of JLG Gold Standard Selections go on to earn starred or favorable reviews and industry honors and awards." (And Smoke & Mirrors gets to be part of that group!). In fact, JLG reports that only 3% of submissions received are given the designation of Gold Standard!

Here's some recent reviews for Smoke & Mirrors:

Ransaw’s fast-paced debut offers an introspective look at dealing with racism and ambiguous grief through the eyes of a preteen. Through an intriguing mystery, the story explores biases and preconceptions [...] A fast-paced, adventurous journey in search of the truth. Kirkus Review, starred

Debut author Ransaw has built a mystery that is as satisfying to adults as it will be to middleschool readers. Her message of self-advocacy is particularly empowering, and readers will feel gratified by Andy’s emergence as a stronger, more confident kid. A worthwhile read for any mystery fan or anyone in need of a little magic. Booklist, starred

Intertwining plotlines regarding the mystery of the Red Nave and Andy's struggles navigating prejudice shed light on how preconceived assumptions can strain friendships and communities. Andy's journal entries, presented as letters addressed to his father, appear throughout Ransaw's thoughtful debut about second chances. Publishers Weekly

Want to read Smoke & Mirrors?

Smoke & Mirrors doesn't hit bookshelves until June 10th, 2025, but you can preorder now using the button below (or from any of your favorite retailers)!

Pre-Order Here

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Rosalyn Ransaw is a children's author based in Columbus, OH. She graduated from Columbia University with a B.A. in Political Science. At her day job, she is a Digital Marketing Manager focused on all things social media and paid advertising.

When not writing, she loves to cry watching romantic comedies and eat her weight in buffalo chicken dip.

SMOKE & MIRRORS is her debut novel.