Identity Theft

July 1, 2013

Gr 8-10-Hayley Westin knows exactly what she wants from life. As an overachiever who is determined to land a prestigious college scholarship, the high school senior doesn't have time for friends, sports, dating, or social media. So when she discovers that a fake Facebook account has been created in her name, she's convinced that someone is out to ruin her chances for the scholarship. However, as the Facebook posts get increasingly intrusive, she begins to fear that these incriminating photos and comments will damage much more than her reputation. This new release is part of the resurrection of the early-1990s "Point Horror" series (Scholastic), and, as such, will appeal to fans of R.L. Stine, Caroline Cooney, and Lois Duncan. Discriminating readers will notice the flaws in logic, repetitive phrasing, stereotypical characters, and predictable ending, but enthusiasts will overlook the weaknesses and appreciate the fast-paced mystery and entertaining plot. Despite its abundant stylistic problems, this title will be a popular choice, especially among reluctant readers.-Leigh Collazo, Ed Willkie Middle School, Fort Worth, TX

Copyright 2013 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

May 15, 2013
Grades 8-11 Hayley, 17, may not be popular, but you wouldn't want to mess with her. A hard-charging overachiever with her eyes on the prestigious Ainsworth scholarship, she has worked hard to get to this pointand that includes staying off social media to keep her online record spotless. Then a Facebook profile pops up under Hayley's name along with a provocative photo and insipid status updates, just in time to ruin her Ainsworth interview. From there the identity sabotage only gets more twisted. Who is the culprit? Is it Adam, her rival for the Ainsworth? Or Jessica, who Hayley refused to name as newspaper editor? Or Keely, her ex-bestie? Or is it even worseis she being haunted, or is she just plain crazy? In this strong entry into the Point Horror series, Davies tosses up plenty of plausible red herrings and throws down a bevy of inventive obstacles, while never diluting the headstrong Hayley, a wonderfully nontraditional protagonist. Though most of the book is straight mystery, never fear: the climax does not skimp on the horror.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2013, American Library Association.)