
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is feeling cynical about social structures and frustrated by injustice, especially within their own school. It's a perfect story for a young person who feels like an outsider and is trying to find their voice. The book follows two very different girls, rule-follower Harriet and rebellious Will, at an elite private school. They secretly team up to create a fake student, Amelia Westlake, to pull off elaborate pranks that expose the school's sexism and corruption. Along the way, they form an unlikely alliance that blossoms into a sweet romance. This novel smartly blends humor, mystery, and a heartfelt LGBTQ+ romance, making serious topics like activism and institutional inequality feel accessible and engaging. It's a story about the power of finding a partner in protest, discovering your own identity apart from expectations, and learning that you can make a difference. It's an empowering and fun read for teens grappling with how to challenge the status quo.
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Sign in to write a reviewSome occasional mild swearing consistent with the age group.
Minor references to underage drinking at a party.
Protagonists lie and break school rules, but do so to expose injustice.
The book's exploration of LGBTQ+ identity is direct, positive, and central to the plot. One protagonist is out and confident, while the other discovers her sexuality through their relationship. The resolution is hopeful and affirming. The story also directly addresses themes of sexism, classism, and institutional corruption in a secular context, portraying them as systems to be challenged.
A teen aged 14-17 who is interested in social justice, enjoys a good mystery or caper story, and is looking for a smart, funny F/F romance. It's perfect for a reader who feels constrained by rules and institutions and fantasizes about creative, clever rebellion.
No specific prep is needed; the book can be read cold. The themes of protest, challenging authority, and sexuality are handled in an age-appropriate and positive manner. It's a great opportunity for parents to open conversations about these topics. The romance involves kissing but is not sexually explicit. A parent might have just heard their teen passionately complain about an unfair rule at school, a biased teacher, or the frustrating dynamics of social cliques. The teen might seem cynical about their ability to change things.
A younger reader (13-14) will likely be drawn to the fun of the pranks, the mystery, and the enemies-to-lovers romance. An older reader (15-17) will more deeply appreciate the sharp social commentary on sexism and classism, and the nuanced character development as Harriet and Will define their own values.
This book's unique strength is its blend of a heist-like prank plot with sharp social critique and a well-developed queer romance. Unlike many YA novels that are more straightforwardly about activism, this one uses humor and elaborate scheming as its engine, making it an exceptionally fun and witty read while still delivering a powerful message.
At the prestigious Rosemead Academy, perfectionist Harriet Price and rebellious artist Will Everhead are rivals. After a sexist teacher is let off the hook, they anonymously co-create a fictional student, Amelia Westlake, as a vehicle for a series of escalating pranks designed to expose the school's hypocrisy and corruption. As they collaborate in secret, they must navigate their clashing personalities, the risk of expulsion, and their growing romantic feelings for one another.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.