Why Can’t I Be You

Money changes everything, or at least it seems that way, in Walker’s (Let’s Pretend We Never Met) heartfelt, honest look at how three pals assess the cost of appearances and the value of friendship. Claire believes her summer before seventh grade is going to be epic. She’s finally deemed old enough to be on her own at Twin Pines Trailer Park while her mother works. But her friend Ronan has been acting different ever since his father returned home, and her other best friend, Brianna, has settled into a big new house in a ritzy neighborhood and is hosting her glamorous cousin. Claire feels left out and jealous, and until now, she has never doubted her friends or felt embarrassed about where she lives. It’s only when Ronan goes missing that Claire realizes what it means to be a true friend. With a clear, compelling voice, Walker creates a believable world where socioeconomic tensions challenge, but never defeat, her well-rounded characters. The young protagonists convey the anxiety, awkwardness, and first glints of maturity that come with being almost 12, and Claire’s caring parents offer a steadfast support that help anchor the story in its satisfying, happy ending. Ages 8–12. Agent: Douglas Stewart, Sterling Lord Literistic. [em](June) [/em]