Going Wild

In this trilogy opener, 13-year-old Charlotte “Charlie” Wilde’s life turns upside down when her mother takes a job in Navarro Junction, Ariz. As the new girl at school, Charlie faces many of the typical difficulties of starting fresh—finding friends, fitting in, and making the soccer team. Things begin to look up for Charlie when she discovers a bracelet that gives her superhuman abilities. McMann (the Unwanteds series) believably channels the voice of a confused middle school girl who wavers between being cocky with her newfound powers and self-conscious (because who isn’t at 13?). With the help of some new friends—comic-book-obsessed Maria and “tech genius” Mac—Charlie tests what the bracelet can do. However, the children don’t realize that the bracelet was stolen and that the man it belongs to is determined to reclaim it. Filled with action, adventure, and a good dollop of wish fulfillment, McMann’s superhero origin story should capture the imagination of any reader who wonders what it would be like to be more than just an average kid. Ages 8–12. Agent: Michael Bourret, Dystel & Goderich Literary Management. (Sept.)