Confessions of a Hater

Life takes a dramatic turn for 15-year-old Hailey Harper, who is used to feeling “Ugly, uninformed and completely lost in a world where superficial bitches reigned supreme,” when her family’s cross-country move to Hollywood coincides with the discovery of her “perfect” older sister’s diary, “How to Be a Hater.” Using its snarky advice as a “roadmap to cool,” Hailey infiltrates her new school’s popular clique, then ditches them to form her own group of quirky, artistic “Invisibles.” Adult author Crane’s first YA novel dives into the world of teenage nastiness, exacerbated by near-instant replays on social media, as rival groups seek to outdo each other’s increasingly cruel pranks. Hailey’s conversational, humorous narrative voice persuasively conveys the inner struggles of a girl trying to find her place in the world, while simultaneously building apprehension as her distorted reasoning and actions threaten to betray her core values and real friends. With a personable protagonist and cast of complex supporting characters, Crane’s enjoyable, suspenseful coming-of-age novel captures the thrills, chills, highs, and lows of high school. Ages 13–up. Agent: Alanna Ramirez, Trident Media Group. (Aug.)