The Most Beautiful Bully

Being the new girl in an elite school is tough enough for seventh grader Carson; being the instant target of mean girl Jessa makes life nearly unbearable. So begins this first book in Freeman’s Summit Middle School series, written at a third-grade reading level. Thankfully, Carson finds a few allies quickly, and she leans on them as Jessa does her worst to tear Carson down. The messages of staying true to one’s self and appreciating genuine friendship resonate, and the suggestion of a possible romance for Carson, as well as the strengthening bonds with her new friends, will leave readers ready for the next book, Silentious, available simultaneously. Ages 10–14. (May)