Girl to the Core

July 27, 2009
An Irish-American backdrop gives this girl-struggling-to-find-herself story a colorful twist. Sheltered by her “Da” and a band of burly uncles, Molly has never had to stand on her own two feet. When it dawns on her that she is being pushed into things she doesn't want to do by her edgy best friend Vanessa and boyfriend Trevor (both of whom end up betraying her), Molly decides it's time to follow her father's advice to “be wise and wide. Guard yourself like a leprechaun would protect his treasure.” The opportunity to do something totally for herself comes from her nine-year-old neighbor, who introduces Molly to the Girl Corps, an organization dedicated to helping young girls become strong, confident women. As the newest (and oldest) member of the group, Molly struggles to meet the high expectations of her stern leader, but lessons in responsibility and self-respect prove fruitful. Beyond the girl-power message, Goldblatt's (Stray
) intimate novel effectively conveys Molly's uncertainties and internal growth as she becomes more inclined to do what she believes is right. Ages 12–up.

September 1, 2009
Gr 8-10-Molly O'Keefe has just cemented her girlfriend status with Trevor, the cutest boy at school. She lives with her dad, uncles, and granddadall raucous transplants from Ireland. She seems to have it all. But Trevor is pressuring her to have sex, and Molly just wants to take it slow. Her mom died when she was young, and she wishes, more than anything, that the woman was there to talk her through this situation. Things take a turn for the worse when Molly catches Trevor hot and heavy with his ex. She seeks comfort in Girl Corps, a Girl Scouts-like organization to which her nine-year-old neighbor, Claire, belongs. Despite the intimidating leader, Rhondi, Molly loves being a mentor for the group; she might be 15 and everyone else 9, but the little girls teach her valuable lessons about being strong and independent, and she even learns from Rhondi in the end. Although Goldblatt's characters are a bit formulaicoverprotective dad; crazy best friend; guilty, lovesick boyfriendthe book's message is a good one. An additional purchase for realistic fiction or chick-lit sections."Traci Glass, Eugene Public Library, OR"

Copyright 2009 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

September 15, 2009
Grades 7-10 Three months into dating a hot junior, Molly isnt ready for the intimacy Trevor wants. An intimidating first meeting with Mollys family is followed shortly by Trevor rushing back into the willing arms of his ex. Molly is stunned by the betrayal, and gets swept into the Girl Corps (red-caped girls whose focus is to become strong, opinionated, charitable individuals) by her young babysitting charge. Surprised by how much she enjoys it, Molly goes to meetings and begins journaling to explore her own goals and strengths. This doesnt go over well with Vanessa, Mollys gorgeous, fast-moving friend, and Trevors constant texts during Girl Corps meetings earn Molly the critical eye of the groups stern leader. Molly is a multidimensional, likable character with a strong, supportive extended family. Her search for identity and self-determination, both in its triumphs and missteps, will resonate with readers who could benefit from the message of Girl Corps long after they think theyre too old for it. Writing prompts are appended to encourage readers to explore their own strengths and goals.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2009, American Library Association.)