The Girls

Each of the girls in a middle-school clique reveals the strong, manipulative hold one of the group exerts on the others, causing hurt and self-doubt among the girls. Maya has been part of the group ever since Candace invited her, but when Candace suddenly deems her unworthy, Maya's so-called friends abandon her. As Maya navigates her feelings and searches for true friendship, she realizes the influence Candace has over the group and the importance of discovering who she can really trust. The Maya, Brianna, Darcy, Renee—and popular, fascinating, dangerous Candace. Five friends ruled by one ringleader who plays games to test their loyalty—and then decides who's in the group and who's out. Each of the girls has her say in this fast-paced and absolutely believable novel set in the war zone of middle school cliques. The author of the highly appraised The Ashwater Experience, Amy Koss has once again crafted a truly original piece of fiction brimming with humor and insight.