I’ve tried finishing this book. Really. But not all books are written for me. But, I can recommend it to others such as those who are struggling in school, need to see what not to do in school, or someone who needs to live vicariously through a character who does things that others might think of doing but NEVER would.
It’s a JLG selected book. It has an interesting concept. Intriguing title. It might be for you. I bought it. I put it on my library’s shelves. I promote it.

Thank you for the chance to review this book, however, unfortunately, I was unable to download this title before it was archived

Although slow to start, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The reason I won't recommend it to students is that it is not really appropriate for my younger students; it is more suited for a YA audience.

At first, the protagonist seems whiny and entitled, and it is difficult to sympathize with her. Each of the other characters likewise seems pigeonholed, and I was tempted to stop reading part way through. However, something had made me care enough about the characters (Resha in particular) to want to continue, and I'm glad I did. Resha's honest and straight-forward narration is entertaining and at times downright funny. I was pleasantly surprised when the characters developed into more multi-dimensional versions of themselves, and when Resha finally took some positive control over her life.

All in all, an enjoyable read, a window (perhaps) into the high-stakes world of competitive college admissions, and a story about figuring out what one really wants from life.

I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.

Having recently observed my own children navigate the college admissions process and hearing about it every day in my high school library, I really wanted to like this book more than I did.

Reshma is a high school senior, the expected valedictorian of her class and desperate to get into Stanford. Her grades are good, but her SATs are weak by Stanford standards -- Reshma needs a hook to pull her into Stanford. (Parents of college students have learned about the hook from college counselors...) Reshma decides that her hook will be this book, which will chronicle her senior year and her fight to retain her position as valedictorian -- by any means necessary.

I didn't love this book, but my friend Margaret really did -- so if it appeals to you, don't be swayed by my 3-star rating.