The It Girl

Twelve-year-old Anna lives in London with her father and dog (named Dog), her most trusted companion. Anna would like to be less of a loser, worries that her ridiculous scrapes (including accidently setting a popular girl’s hair on fire) will embarrass her two best friends, and wants class hottie Brendan to ask her to the school dance. When her father announces his engagement to a famous film star, Anna is suddenly thrust into the spotlight as Britain’s newest “It Girl.” After additional blunders (such as when her X-Men–themed long underwear gets exposed on a class trip), Anna decides that it’s time to become a true It Girl once and for all. In her debut novel, British writer Birchall shapes Anna’s narration around amusing lists and email exchanges, delightfully absurd moments, and dry observations (in reference to a large sushi dinner, Anna thinks, “We were about to consume the entire cast of The Little Mermaid”) that may remind readers of Louise Rennison’s work. The themes of friendship and being true to oneself are familiar, but Anna’s self-deprecating humor and big heart keep the story fresh and entertaining. Ages 9–13. Agent: Lauren Clarke, Bell Lomax Moreton. (June)