Freak

First-time novelist Pixley crafts a disturbing tale that taps into the harsh reality of what it means to be a middle-school outcast. Twelve-year-old Miriam Fisher, who enjoys reading the dictionary in her spare time, has always been labeled an “alien” at school and tormented by the popular girls. Her older sister, Deborah, has been her one true friend—but now Deborah has transformed from an uncool ugly duckling into a popular swan and no longer has time for her kid sister. Things fall apart when her sister begins dating the guy she has an enormous crush on. In the most powerful scene, Miriam lashes out in a stunning act of self-destruction. Readers will feel her horror at what she’s done to herself: “I looked more like a reptile than a human. I stared at my reflection in the mirror and watched the naked eyes grow wide and terrified.” Only when she hits bottom does Miriam finally discover her inner strength and stand up boldly for herself and ultimately for one of her tormentors in desperate need of help. Pixley doesn’t cut corners: Miriam is not all that sympathetic. She’s quirky, monopolizes conversations and includes herself in others’ plans. But the accomplished writing moves readers well beyond easy likability. Observant and tough, Miriam’s voice has a knife edge that tears past the surface. Ages 12-up. (Oct.)