cover image Lucky Girl

Lucky Girl

Amanda Maciel. HarperCollins/Balzer + Bray, $17.99 (320p) ISBN 978-0-06-230533-6

This affecting tale of survival and rebirth centers on Rosie Fuller, the most beautiful girl at Midcity High. It’s a shock to Rosie when the summer ends and her “sporty, STEM-y” best friend, Maddie Costello, returns to Omaha looking like a model. Rosie is determined to be supportive, so when Maddie admits to a long-standing crush on Rosie’s summer fling, Cory Callahan, Rosie sets aside her jealousy, cuts ties with Cory, and gives Maddie her blessing. The situation is awkward but manageable—until a tornado hits during a house party and the attendees must spend the night. Drunkenness ensues, and Cory tries to rape Rosie; Maddie interrupts and assumes that Rosie instigated the encounter. Guilt, shame, and fear plague Rosie, but she copes with the help of Alex Goode, a transfer student with his own baggage who convinces Rosie that she’s more than just a pretty face. Maciel (Tease) offers a nuanced take on her characters’ individual situations (Rosie isn’t the only character to suffer trauma) and approaches their stories with empathy and respect. Ages 14–up. Agent: Holly Root, Waxman Leavell Literary. (Apr.)