Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Alexandra

Bindy Mackenzie has always thought of herself as a kind, smart person who always did and said the right thing and was well-liked by everyone. That's why she's startled to discover, on her first day of Friendship and Development class in Year 11, that no one likes her! In fact, the only positive thing anyone said about her was that "she is a very fast typist." That's not even a compliment, that's just a fact! Bewildered, when Bindy has the occasion to document her life for the same class, she is determined to portray herself as likeable, while at the same time retaliating against her fellow students who insulted her. She is determined that she will make good friends, and that everyone will like her. Then, all of a sudden, Bindy is in danger, and only her friends can help her. Is Bindy as likeable as she sees herself? Saving her from danger seems as good a test as any. This documentary novel, with some of the same characters as Feeling Sorry for Celia and The Year of Secret Assignments, is a slice of life of the girl who thought she had it all, then found out she had nothing. You'll have to decide for yourself if Bindy is likeable or not, but the novel most certainly is. It is poignant and humorous, and seems all the way through incredibly realistic. You're sure to find at least one character you wish to befriend, even if you decide against Bindy.