I'm not entirely sure of the category for this. This is a library discard, found on our school's swap shelf.

I haven't read a great deal by Oates, but was surprised to discover that along with her "serious" fiction, she also writes for teens. I will refrain from discussing the absurdity of that comment - of course, there is no reason why fiction targetting younger audiences should not be considered serious. At any rate, this deals with rumor, and slander, and reputation... all very grown up themes, actually. The main characters here, who self-identify at some point as misfits, are complex and quite credible. Despite the heaviness of the themes, there is a light touch, perhaps in deference to the above-mentioned audience. Great disasters are hinted at, but do not occur. There are many hurts, but there is healing. There is danger, it is averted. Still, a good, thought-provoking read, which would be interesting to do with a class.

This now heads to Germany, courtesy of bookmooch. Enjoy!