How to Be a Girl in the World

Summary

From the critically
acclaimed author of the ALA Notable and
Charlotte Huck Honor Book Forever, or a Long, Long Time
comes a poignant coming-of-age novel about the complicated parts of growing
up, finding your voice, and claiming your space. Perfect for fans of Rebecca
Stead, Laurel Snyder, or Ali
Benjamin!

Lydia hasn’t felt comfortable in her own skin since the boys
at her school started commenting on the way she looks in her uniform. Her
cousin and friends think she should be flattered, but the boys—and sometimes
her mom’s boyfriend, Jeremy—make Lydia uncomfortable and confused. Even more
confusing is when Jeremy hovers too close and hugs a little too long.

Then her mom surprises her by buying a dilapidated house in
their neighborhood. Lydia hopes to find a little bit of magic in their new home.
But just like the adults in her life, and God, and her friends, the magic Lydia
deeply believes in eventually loses its power to keep her safe.

And as seventh
grade begins, Lydia wonders: Is there a secret to figuring out how to be a girl
in the world?