Bright

In a thoughtfully rendered novel that considers personal strengths amid societal labels, eighth grader Marianne Blume “didn’t know a lot, but she knew she was stupid.” Marianne has long struggled academically, but to get by in school and navigate her classmates’ mockery, she cultivates a “bubbly and unbothered” persona that masks her drifting thoughts. When her principal shares the news that she may have to repeat a year, she commits to upping her grades. Being left behind by her class—including best friend Skya, who already seems to be making new friendships—is unthinkable. So, desperate to win extra credit from her strict math teacher, Marianne joins three of the school’s smartest kids on Quiz Quest, a variously inclusive club that’s as desperate for members as she is for a passing grade. Despite a rough start, the teammates make a number of important discoveries throughout the season, including observant Marianne’s considerable empathy and social skills. Young (The Prettiest) organically explores concepts of what it means to work hard and be smart through Marianne’s realistically bumpy arc, including apt portrayals of her internal frustrations and negative self-talk. Most characters cue as white. Ages 8–12. Agent: Melissa Edwards, Stonesong. (July)