Lucky by Rachel Vail
Harper Collins (Harper Teen. 2009. ISBN 9780060890452.
(Age 13+) An American teen novel sadly
popular with pre teens as
well. It's very hard to be enthusiastic
about such hum drum writing, especially when shrouded with rich girl
syndrome,
beautiful people controlling the year group and constant references to
money! Phoebe and her four friends are
excitedly
preparing for their middle school graduation with the 'hottest party'
ever. Spoilt, over indulged girls who
think of little other than who will be invited and what they will wear
is
painful to read, (but I'm not 14!).
Phoebe's crisis comes when her mother loses her job. Dad is a teacher
and the family can't afford
the beautiful green dress on the cover (and only from Neiman Marcus!)
or the
cost of the dance. In her speech as year
captain, Phoebe tries to redress her friendship with her friends and
this is a
highlight of the book.
No doubt
teenagers will read it as Rachel Vail has written many in this genre.
Sue Nosworthy