Bookishly Ever After

Gr 7–10—Sixteen-year-old South Jersey resident Phoebe has a small but devoted circle of friends, and they gently tease her about her obsession with fantasy books, archery, and knitting. Phoebe feels socially inadequate when it comes to the opposite sex and has a crush on handsome junior class president Kris. She doesn't pick up the clues that gorgeous Dev is very interested in her. Phoebe uses the romance tactics portrayed in her fantasy novels to try to flirt with Kris, and when she permits her friends to help her with makeovers and more trendy and flattering clothing, she's delighted that he finally notices her. On a camping trip where Phoebe is paired up as counselor with Dev, she finally has the opportunity to kiss Kris, but there are no sparks, and she's tremendously disappointed. Well-developed characterization, sparkling and humorous dialogue, and a logical story line combine in author Bandeira's easily relatable debut novel.