Plot Summary

The Cupcake Queen

Heather Hepler
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The Cupcake Queen

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009

Book Brief

Heather Hepler

The Cupcake Queen

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2009
Book Details
Pages

242

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Hog's Hollow, New York • Contemporary

Theme
Topic
Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

710L

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Super Short Summary

The Cupcake Queen by Heather Hepler follows teenager Penny as she adjusts to life in the small town of Hog's Hollow after moving from New York City due to her parents' separation. Penny's mother opens a cupcake bakery, and though Penny initially resents the move, she eventually finds joy in baking, makes new friends, and comes to embrace her new life, realizing her future isn't reliant on her parents' relationship. The book addresses parental separation and bullying.

Emotional

Melancholic

Bittersweet

Hopeful

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.2

8,195 ratings

64%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Heather Hepler's The Cupcake Queen is often praised for its relatable protagonist and heartfelt narrative, capturing the challenges of adolescence and small-town life. Critics appreciate its charming, lighthearted moments and strong theme of friendships. However, some find the plot predictable and character development lacking depth. Overall, it’s seen as an enjoyable, feel-good read suitable for its target YA audience.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Cupcake Queen?

The ideal reader for Heather Hepler's The Cupcake Queen enjoys heartfelt stories about teenage life, friendship, and personal growth. Fans of Sarah Dessen's Someone Like You or Ann Brashares' The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants will appreciate the relatable characters, emotional depth, and the themes of navigating new beginnings.

4.2

8,195 ratings

64%

Loved it

27%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

242

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Hog's Hollow, New York • Contemporary

Theme
Topic
Publication Year

2009

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

710L

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