After an injury brings her gymnastics career to an abrupt end, Eden (13) is feeling lost – that is, until a school suspension alongside her classmate and friend Maribel, results in the discovery of an impassioned, innovative, and generous community that includes Maribel and her family, Will, a trans boy, and his mom, Raven. As Eden learns about poverty, inequity, and many women’s lack of access to menstruation products, she unearths a passion for helping people as well as a knack for sewing that she uses to sew reusable cloth menstrual pads that are freely distributed by the small nonprofit Raven runs. As Eden finds her passion, purpose, and explores period related aspects of social justice, however, her relationship with her mother, Heather, a super successful business woman who makes menstruation products for profit, becomes increasingly strained. 

Readers will root for Eden as she navigates shifting perspectives and priorities with nuance and authenticity and will feel empowered by this thought-provoking and inspiring storyline centering on the hardships and rewards of taking thoughtful and empathic action. McCullough skillfully touches upon complex issues of poverty, inequity, mother-daughter relationships, middle school friendships, and social justice through well rounded, highly likable characters in moving and relatable ways, offering readers a powerful narrative of resilience and determination. Often funny and hugely heartfelt, Code Red is a highly recommended and timely read for all middle school audiences.