Some Girls Are

Gr 8—10—"You're either someone, or you're not." Regina Afton is someone. She's a member of the Fearsome Foursome, a controlling clique, and has bullied her way to the top of the social ladder. But when her best friend starts vicious rumors that destroy her reputation, she finds out what it is like to be on the receiving end of the attack. Friendless, Regina turns to Michael, a social outcast, who was once the target of her bullying. She has to work to gain Michael's trust, and they soon become more than friends. When the threats and abuse from the Fearsome Foursome escalate, Regina stands to lose everything that is important to her. Katie Schorr's smooth narration is natural and believable, and she makes listeners feel all the anguish experienced by Regina. Courtney Summer's taut, engaging, and masterfully crafted novel (St. Martin's Griffin, 2010) touches on issues that impact many teens. Her brilliant depiction of the complexities of navigating the teen social scene and the twisted ethics of the characters will have listeners thinking about this book's message long after it has ended. Drinking, drug use, and swearing make this title best for mature teens.—Lisa Hubler, Charles F. Brush High School, South Euclid, OH