Eleven-year-old Maya’s life is bit of a mess. Her dad just moved out to pursue his stand-up comedy dreams, her mum seems more preoccupied with running the family’s Russian deli than getting Dad back, and Maya’s anxiety and germ worries have only been heightening. Her grandma always tells her “slozi goryu ne pomozhet” - tears won’t help sorrow - but right now it’s hard to be strong.

So when her teacher Ms. Banta announces the talent show, Maya sees an opportunity. If she can perform stand-up comedy in the show, she can prove to her mum and dad that comedy has a place in all their lives and try to bring them together again. But conquering her fears amidst her family falling apart and a growing hot-hot-hot feeling inside is easier said than done . . .

In this authentic novel full of both humour and heartbreak, Margaret Gurevich crafts a story about comedy, fractured family, and learning how strength comes in many forms.