Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

“Why fit in when you are born to stand out?”  From the day she arrives at quiet Mica High in a burst of color and sound, hallways hum “Stargirl.” She captures Leo Borlock’s heart with one smile and sparks a school-spirit revolution with one cheer. The students of Mica High are enchanted, until they are not. Then Leo urges her to become the very thing that can destroy her - normal. 

Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli is a wonderful tale of what it means to be a unique individual in this  world of conformity.  Stargirl is embraced by many as a positive, energetic force in the community.  However, there are some people who don’t know how to handle her uniqueness and eventually become frustrated by her and her actions.  Stargirl’s adventures and experiences are a rollercoaster that keeps us captivated till the end.                                                                                                         

I recommend this book to boys and girls alike, ages 10 and up.  It is funny, honest and most importantly, real.  This realistic fiction story helps the reader, and some of the characters, realize how important kindness and acceptance are.  What I enjoyed most about this story is that everyone can relate to it and its characters in some way and by the end, you want to be a better person. 

If you are a fan of Jerry Spinelli, you’ll enjoy this story.  If you haven’t read his work, now is the time to start.  Stargirl will captivate you with her quirky behavior.  You will end up wanting to be like her or wishing you had her as a friend.  We all need a Stargirl in our lives!

Joanna B.