Pretty Is

Holmes's first novel addresses the stresses of starting middle school, family loyalty and the loneliness that results when friends begin to outgrow each other. Because of her older sister, Monica, 11-year-old Erin is apprehensive about the approach of sixth grade in the fall. Erin knows Monica is different-she wears ""dorky clothes,"" likes knitting, is ""kind of tomboyish"" and (most horrifying to Erin) doesn't shave her legs. When Erin's friend Kayla begins cruelly poking fun her about Monica, Erin (a huge Lord of the Rings fan) wonders if she is doomed to become an outcast as well. Angered by Kayla's relentless teasing, Erin and another friend, Hannah, plan an act of revenge against Kayla and cut her long blonde hair. Monica tattles on Erin, putting additional strain on their already troubled relationship. While the two sisters attend Gilead Baptist Camp together, their stay is extended when their mother must undergo a hysterectomy, though even their mutual concern doesn't go far toward making them friends. Numerous additional subplots, both at camp and at home, showcase Erin's growth as a person. Holmes has created a heroine with plenty of growing up to do, but does little to flesh out her relationship with her sister. It's only after Monica becomes a star basketball player for the school team that Erin begins to embrace her sister's differences, which makes for a fairly hollow resolution. Ages 10-up.