by Richard Peck
First published 1977
Sandra finds herself thrust into an unexpected spotlight when circumstances transform her from an ordinary teenager into a local celebrity. The attention feels thrilling at first, but she quickly discovers that fame comes with complications she never anticipated. Friends treat her differently, adults have new expectations, and Sandra struggles to figure out who she really is beneath all the noise. She must navigate the gap between her public image and her private self while dealing with the everyday challenges of growing up. As the pressure mounts, Sandra faces difficult choices about authenticity, friendship, and what truly matters. Richard Peck crafts a story about a young woman learning that being seen by everyone doesn't necessarily mean being understood by anyone.
Genres: fiction, contemporary, adolescence, young-adult
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, found-family
Period: 21st-century
Paperback · Editions G.P.