30 Days of No Gossip
Maddie has built quite the reputation as the Queen of Gossip, but after spilling her best friend’s secret, she suddenly finds herself with a challenge: go 30 days with no gossip or lose Vi’s friendship. She tries valiantly, but with the whole school coming to her for gossip, it’s hard to hold her tongue, especially when she learns that there is a Hollywood producer interested in using the school for a reality show. What could have easily been a message-driven story about the evils of gossip becomes an entertaining tale about a girl trying to be a better friend. With her relationship to Vi on the line, Maddie really does question the effect of gossip not only on those she talks about but also on herself. This lighthearted yet thoughtful take on a common habit will make a great starting point for discussion while still being an enjoyable read. Grades 6-9. --Tiffany Erickson