Virginia Shreves lives in the proverbial shadow of her parents and older siblings. Her mom is a renowned adolescent psychologist, her father a successful businessman, her sister a beautiful woman with a generous heart, and her brother a popular student at Columbia. With all those great genetics, Virginia should have been a slender queen of her class. Instead, she is slightly overweight and hovers at the edge of obscurity.

Virginia follows the “Fat Girl Code of Conduct” and tries to get by without too much attention. Her best friend is gone for the school year, leaving her adrift among the elitist students at the private high school she attends. Worse, her mother, unhappy with Virginia’s size, is pressing her into yet another diet.

The almost picture-perfect Shreves family is shattered by a devastating phone call. The consequences shake Virginia’s worldview in ways she never imagined. Over the next few months, she reevaluates the importance of health, beauty, friendship, and finding your true self. It will be a life-changing journey.

In this novel, Mackler demonstrates her ability to search deep into the teenaged soul and draw out something of worth. She pulls few, if any, punches as she guides Virginia through a tumultuous period in her life. Not only are the scenes beautifully rendered, but it is done in a way true to Virginia’s voice. By the end of this novel, the reader will believe in Virginia Shreves and her power to overcome obstacles large and small.

Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Christina Wantz Fixemer
6/25/2006

Parental Note: There is a small amount of explicit language, drinking, and some sexual references. However, these issues are present in every teen’s life and should not be ignored. As with anything, it is best to be open and discuss how you feel about these things with your teen.

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