Model Misfit

December 1, 2015

Gr 7 Up-Start to finish, this hilarious tale of klutzy and brainy model-in-the-making Harriet Manners is sure to please readers looking for a realistic yet lighthearted story. British 15-year-old Harriet is recovering from heartbreak after her first crush, on Nick, an Australian model who helped her get her first break. The protagonist faces a long summer while best friend Nat is away in France and Harriet's parents are distracted preparing for a new baby. Harriet is adrift until she receives word from her agent that an important shoot in Japan is hers for the taking. She jumps at the chance, and so begins a barrage of self-induced calamities, back-stabbing high jinks by other models, and the reemergence of Nick. Katey Sobey handles several different characters with ease and provides many laugh-aloud moments. VERDICT This novel is distinctly innocent and fun with a great message that being a smart girl really is a la mode.-Suzanne Dix, the Seven Hills School, Cincinnati, OH

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