Rissa Bartholomew's Declaration of Independence by Lynda B. Comerford

• Publisher: Scholastic Press
• Date: May 2009
• Page Count: 250
• Reading Level: Ages 9-12

BOOK DESCRIPTION: Rissa Bartholomew didn't plan on declaring her independence from all of her friends at her own birthday party. But somehow, that's exactly what she did. Now she's entering sixth grade without a single friend, and she's determined to make new ones without simply following the herd.

MY REVIEW: This book was a really quick read. Seriosly, I read it in one evening. Rissa is 11 and entering middle school (which I can relate to since we're the same age). She's tired of the way of her old friends are always talking about clothes and shopping, stuff she's not really interested in. What Rissa wants is to be independent--like her new friend, Violet. During all of this, she's forgetting about her BFF since birth, Beth (they were born at the same hospital on the same day). Rissa is trying to be true to herself and not just a copycat. Then Violet and Rissa are partners for a Social Studies oral presentation and Violet has to get an A, but then the worst thing happens.... You'll have to read the book to find out the rest.

I loved how the author has Lissa say things like "leave the herd" instead of just saying 'move on' -- Rissa's way of talking was cool and different and that's why I liked her. She's funny and learns to stand up for what's important.

RECOMMENDED: A BIG YESS!

RATING: +++++ (LOVED IT!)

FOR FANS OF: Sixth Grade Glommers; Camp Confidential series; many others.

SERIES: No.

REVIEWED BY: Caitlin

BOOK SOURCE: I received it as a gift.