Ellie is new at East Lakeside Middle School, and after her family's outcast experience back in Brookdale, she is determined to be a loner. But at lunch Ellie ends up introducing herself to Alyssa, another loner and a goth. Ellie shares with Alyssa the magical spyglass that is installed in the turret at home. Looking through the spyglass shows the town below but also scenes of people's feelings and fantasies. A tentative friendship forms between them. Soon Rachel, another loner with famously overprotective moms, becomes a part of their group after they view her through the spyglass portrayed as a five-year-old. When the girls see Kiara through the spyglass playing with a tiger, gorilla and donkey, Ellie thinks Kiara might be another just-right addition for their group. However, Kiara proves harder to crack. For readers who enjoy friendship stories with a twist, this series opener promises light and entertaining adventures. ( )