PASTA GIRLS

• 2026 Rainbow Book List title

Sweeter than zeppole. This book has something for everyone. -- Jake Maia Arlow, Stonewall Honor Author of Almost Flying

In this queer, contemporary, and neurodiverse spin on Romeo and Juliet from Stonewall Award Honor author Taylor Tracy, two New York City girls from warring restaurateur families befriend each other during the busiest week for their respective Italian eateries: the Feast of San Gennaro.

Hot-headed and energetic Romea Marino is starting ninth grade with a full plate. Between confusing social dynamics of high school and juggling extracurriculars, Ro can only find peace in the reliable comfort of her kitchen, where she's able to follow in her dad's culinary footsteps, whipping up Italian-fusion recipes.

Thoughtful and reserved Julianna Cangelosi is dying to help in her family's restaurant, which serves traditional Italian dishes. But because Jules suffers from anxiety and struggles with overstimulation, her parents are wary of their daughter being in the chaos of a New York City kitchen.

When Ro and Jules meet on the first night of the San Gennaro Festival, sparks flyuntil they learn that their fathers own dueling Italian restaurants across the street from each other. But the more the girls hang outRo teaching Jules how to cook; Jules taking Ro to her favorite spots around the citythe more their feelings grow. Can they rewrite the old tale of star-crossed kids from rival families and create a new recipe for love and friendship?