Homeroom #01: Strange Times at Fairwood High

The first book in the Homeroom series focuses on Piper, who had believed herself ready for anything on the first day of high school. But once she gets to Fairwood High she realizes the only thing she is ready to do is go home. Then she discovers that she isn't the only one with scheduling problems, and that everyone in her new homeroom is as nervous as she is. She also finds some friends: dark, mysterious Tamara and blond, reckless Judd. The mystery of Tamara's background is soon unraveled, but it takes longer for Piper's parents to believe that Judd really can be responsible. While Norton's book is not very substantial fare, it is a light and easygoing story, a mostly innocent chronicle of life in high school. Ages 11-15. (September)