Don't Judge Me
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- $14.99
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- $14.99
Publisher Description
Inspired by a true story of girl empowerment, acclaimed author Lisa Schroeder's new novel explores trust, self-worth, and speaking up -- especially when you're told to keep quiet.Well-behaved girls seldom make historyHazel doesn't like to make waves. Middle school is hard enough without causing more trouble, right? She's happy just eating lunch in the library with her BFF, writing secret haikus, and taking care of an adorable rescue tortoise.But then Hazel discovers a list that rates the girls at her middle school based on their looks -- started by her best friend's older brother. She knows she has to do something, and she can't do it alone. The wave she'll be making might turn into a tsunami, but if Hazel can find the courage to speak up, she might just change everything.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
Offering a strong message about toxic masculinity, this heartfelt contemporary novel set in small-town Oregon begins when two best friends shy, body-conscious Hazel and outspoken, confident Tori learn in the first days of class that their middle school has a "jerk problem." The strict dress code targets girls; two boys who trip them in the halls each day receive no punishment; and new student Dion, who "liked poetry and cried because his feelings were hurt," is bullied. When tortoise-lover Hazel discovers a notebook in which boys rank female classmates' looks and leave degrading comments, she doesn't want to dismiss the problem by retreating into her shell. Determined to speak out, Hazel hosts a "girl power" party and gains support for creating a safe learning environment, eventually finding the courage to confront their intimidating male principal. Using a first-person narrative, Schroeder (See You on a Starry Night) eloquently traces Hazel's metamorphosis from fearful onlooker to brave activist, while highlighting lessons she learns along the way. Ages 8 12.
