She's So Dead to Us

Gr 9-Up Mean-girl socialites are an overworked plot device, but this book deftly explores peer pressure, grudges, and decency. Ally shares the narrative with Jake, the desirable boy who moves into her old luxury home. She and her parents left ritzy Orchard Hill when an investment that her beloved father made turned sour. Unfortunately, he also lost money for other families in their tight clique. Soon afterward, he disappeared from Ally's life. Now she and her mom have moved back to their old neighborhood, but into a cheap condo, and find they are personae non grata to those they loved and trusted. Jake, who's been accepted by the "Cresties," falls for Ally, prompting pranks from his jealous "best friend," Shannen. Ally, who's made friends with other "Norms," is thrust back into hostile territory by their relationship. To complicate matters, she feels guilty about making out with her former friend's steady. Chloe doesn't know and has stayed neutral. Shannen, however, is ready to bare all secrets, including something devastating to Ally. The story ends with Ally's father appearing on her doorstep, so there is sure to be a sequel."Tina Zubak, Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh, PA" Copyright 2010 Media Source Inc.