By Sydney Dunlap

“It Happened on Saturday by Sydney Dunlap is the heart-pounding story of one 13-year-old girl’s brush with human trafficking. The story follows Julia through and beyond her experience with emotionally true resonance, and is woven through with subplots, that will appeal to middle grade readers. A compelling novel that is also a cautionary tale, and should be read by parents, teachers, and kids alike.” —Janet Fox, author of Carry Me Home

Thirteen-year-old Julia would much rather work with horses at the rescue barn than worry about things like dating and makeup. But when her BFF meets a boy at camp, Julia’s determined not to get left behind. After a makeover from her older sister, she posts a picture of herself online and gets a comment from Tyler—a seemingly nice kid who lives across town. As they DM more and more, Julia’s sure that Tyler understands her in a way her family never has. Even better, their relationship earns her tons of attention at school.

Then Julia finds out Tyler’s true plan, and her world is turned upside down. She fiercely guards her secret, but could her silence allow her friends to fall into the same trap?

Sydney Dunlap is a former elementary school teacher who has worked with at-risk youth in a variety of settings, and she enjoys reading and writing heartfelt, hopeful fiction that expands young readers’ awareness of tough topics. Sydney lives with her family in a home where the dogs and cats outnumber the people.