Divas Don't Cry

Gr 9 Up—Rich and fabulous teens Spencer, London, Rich, and Heather battle it out over broken friendships, maintaining their celebrity status on and off the red carpet, and boys. Spencer uses her sleuthing powers not only to dig up dirt on her former friends, but also to help them see the error of their ways. London is facing the repercussions of a recent suicide attempt and broken friendships and lamenting the loss of her boyfriend Anderson. Rich struggles to maintain her status as queen bee on campus and keep a tight hold on her rough and rugged boyfriend Justice Banks. Heather used to be a television phenomenon, until a drug addiction and her mother's antics capsized her career. These celebrity teens have a tough time exploring their own neuroses while they search for the chinks in their frenemies' armor. This is a good read for reality television and urban fiction fans. The author cleverly explores the topics of drug abuse, body image, mother-daughter relationships, and self-empowerment through the lenses of excess, class, and fame. The over-the-top characters and salacious language choice make for a unique and funny story.