Firegirl

"This novel may be brief, but it leaves a big impact." -Publishers Weekly (starred review)

I agree.

In Firegirl by Tony Abbott, seventh-grader Tom and his best friend Jeff are typical teens going through the hum-drum routine of school. Until Jessica Feeney arrives.

Jessica has been badly burned in an accident. Her "skin was all rough and uneven. It looked almost smeared and was stained all shades of pink and white and red. Her lips were swollen. They nearly filled the space between her nose and chin. Her eyes peeked out from behind skin that looked melted. Her hair was mostly short. Her arms were covered, except that the forearms were bare and blotchy. Her fingers were bent as if she were trying to grab something."

Even though Tom secretly wishes to catch the attention of another girl in class, Courtney, he finds himself thinking about Jessica. When Tom's teacher asks him to deliver some books and homework to Jessica's house, the unexpected chore turns into the beginning of a unique friendship between shy Tom and Jessica.

"Firegirl is a powerful book that shows readers that even the smallest of gestures can have a profound impact on someone's life."

I would certainly recommend this book. At only 149 pages, it is a quick read that won't soon be forgotten.

Happy Reading!
Mrs. T :)

P.S. Reading is like breathing chocolate air!