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Book Cover for: How to Be a Girl in the World, Caela Carter

How to Be a Girl in the World

Caela Carter

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?

Book Details

  • Publisher: Quill Tree Books
  • Publish Date: Jul 13rd, 2021
  • Pages: 320
  • Language: English
  • Edition: undefined - undefined
  • Dimensions: 7.50in - 5.10in - 0.70in - 0.45lb
  • EAN: 9780062672711
  • Recommended age: 08-12
  • Categories: Social Themes - Adolescence & Coming of AgeSocial Themes - Emotions & FeelingsGirls & Women

About the Author

Carter, Caela: -

Caela Carter is a writer and an educator. She is a graduate of the New School's MFA program in writing for children. She has written three books for middle grade readers: One Speck of Truth, My Life with the Liars, and Forever, or a Long, Long Time, which received three starred reviews, among other accolades. Caela lives in Brooklyn with her family. You can visit her online at www.caelacarter.com.

Praise for this book

"An unflinching, unputdownable story. Heartbreaking and ultimately empowering, this book should be read by every kid as well as the adults who care about them." -- Anne Ursu, author of Breadcrumbs and The Real Boy

"Timely, brave, and bold. A necessary book for readers of all ages. Impossible to put down and impossible to stop thinking about, this book is more than special--it is vital. Readers will feel seen and heard--the truest gift a book can give us." -- Corey Ann Haydu, author of Eventown and The Someday Suitcase

"Carter crafts a powerful novel about sexual harassment and the adults who often diminish or ignore it. Carter does a good job in addressing the topics of sexual assault and consent. This novel leaves readers with an important message about sexual harassment. An excellent addition to middle grade collections." -- School Library Journal (starred review)

"This ambitious novel covers significant, rarely explored ground. This is sure to ignite mother-daughter book club debates." -- Kirkus Reviews

"The uneasiness Lydia feels with unwanted male attention and peers who suggest that she should covet it sends a powerful message about the male gaze and the importance of individual consent." -- Publishers Weekly

"Carter has crafted a realistic coming-of-age story of empowerment, and Lydia's experiences teach readers that it's important to speak up--even about loved ones--and ask for help." -- Booklist