Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
Who would like this book? Teens who are interested in issues of identity, conformity vs. individuality, and harassment in a high school environment.
Why? Stargirl is the classic nonconformist, free spirit. When she shows up at Mica High with her long skirts and ukulele, students don’t know how to handle her. Leo Borlock, the book’s 16-year-old narrator, is fascinated by her pure, primitive approach to life and wants to get closer to her. His desire for fun adventures with her turn out to have unexpected consequences for both of them, and the important question comes into focus: How do you remain true to yourself while navigating a school situation that seems to require conformity? Spinelli explores this question with many entertaining details, such as Stargirl’s rat “Cinnamon,” her stint as a cheerleader, her appearance on Leo’s TV show “Hot Seat,” and the descriptions of the Arizona desert. Stargirl somehow knows the birthday of each student and celebrates by doing a serenade on her ukulele. Anyone have a ukulele?
The details: 186 p. 2000