Best teen angst I've read in a long time ( )

This is a quick read that will appeal to the middle school crowd. A little edgy, but still acceptable. At first I thought the title was too strong. Miriam just seemed to me like a typical unpopular 7th grader who walks to the beat of her own drum. Then I really started to feel the meanness that exists in so many kids at that age. Kids who have dysfunctional home lives are full of so much unhappiness that they can't help but pass it on to others through bullying. Miriam is bullied by one such girl who calls her a freak for being an individual and not conforming. This all comes to a head near the end, but forgiveness and understanding have the final word. ( )

Miriam is proud to be an outsider until 7th grade when her best buddy older sister turns beautiful and eager to join the in-crowd. Matters only get worse when Artie, a family friend and the hottest guy in school comes to live with them. Teased by the "watermelon girls" and seemingly abandoned by her family Miriam moves closer to the edge. ( )

Mixed feelings. I remember 7th grade, and I remember feeling much like Miriam does, with all the abuse of classmates heaped on. But she brings so much of it on herself (as I almost certainly did, I'm sure) and it's hard to like her

Realistic portrayal of girl-on-girl bullying, but ultimately I don't think the 8th graders will respond to it. ( )

This is a great book for any tween growing up. Especially those who value education more than popularity. I wish I had found this book when I was growing up; I would have realized that there were others in the same situations and not only did they survive they found courage to do what is right in the end. A wonderful read. ( )