Review Detail

Charlie Dean is obsessed with fashion. When an opportunity to win a an art scholarship to a prestigious school comes up, she's in. Not even her less than stellar home life will stand in her way.

John-Thomas Smith could care less about fashion but wants to go to the prestigious art school. Even if that means he has to put together a fashion item to win.

What worked: Omg, I just loved this book so much. The voice is nothing short of amazing. Charlie Dean is ambitious, smart, funny, and determined. She needs these qualities to help her rise above her home life. Her dad though isn't the stereotypical 'mean' drug dad but one that loves Charlie. His addiction is at times a wedge between them. I LOVED the little 'Here's An Idea' quotes on each of Charlie's chapters. Readers get a glimpse into her obsession with fashion and also her humor.

LOVE.

John Thomas-Smith at first comes across as that kid who would roll his eyes at someone like Charlie. Readers though see another side of him when he doesn't give up but tries hard to actually put together a fashion item. Yes, he does have some weaknesses, but we also see his reaction to a tween being bullied at the salad place where he works at and how he reaches out to her.

I really loved the climax of the story which doesn't fall for the usual 'happily ever after' ending. Charlie's home life collides in what could be a tragic way but she ends up not backing down. That's what I loved about Charlie--she's a survivor. She's also someone I would have loved to hung with in high school. Her vulnerabilities make her strong.

Humorous and inspiring glimpse into a girl's attempt to win a scholarship to a prestigious art school. Her spunk and humor bely her less than stellar home life. Sure to resonate with readers and leave a smile on your face long after you finish the book.