Gossip from the Girls' Room

Gr 4—6—This "Pre-Blogging Notebook" recounts the events that take place over a period of one month and chronicles the gossip-gathering of Sophia Becker, a sixth grader with a mission to increase her popularity or decrease Mia St. Claire's. Sophia draws cartoonish illustrations of herself, her best friend, her nemesis, her crush, and various classmates and family members, and comments bluntly about their flaws and shortcomings. She eavesdrops every chance she gets, including multiple trips per day to the girls' bathroom, where she hides in a stall. Given the amount of time she seems to spend there, it's amazing that she can keep up with her schoolwork. After she gathers enough gossip, she posts her findings on the school's blog, where she names the victims along with her gossip. The premise strains credulity. Even though the advisor cautions Sophia that gossip can be hurtful and advises her not to divulge names, what teacher in his or her right mind would allow such a post to be published at all? Sophia is self-centered and unkind and does not seem to grow or show much empathy even after being exposed. The book ends with her wondering about what goes on in the boys' room, promising a sequel. Jeff Kinney's "Wimpy Kid" (Abrams), Rachel Renée Russell's "Dork Diaries" (S & S), and Amy Ignatow's "The Popularity Papers" (Abrams) are much better choices.—Brenda Kahn, Tenakill Middle School, Closter, NJ