Glitter Girl

December 2, 2013
Runkle and Webb debut with a 21st-century take on the idea that "All that glitters is not gold." Eighth grader Kat Connors's sky-high popularity soars into the stratosphere after she's chosen as one of 50 "Alpha Girls" competing to be the face of the Glitter Girl line of teen cosmetics and accessories. The story's main thread revolves around Kat's hosting of an exclusive slumber party and the resulting mania around Glitter Girl products, all driven by a viciously ambitious young marketing executive. Other tangents include Kat's resentment that her father is constantly away on business and the fact that her ascent to "the Mount Rushmore of Popular" is creating a widening rift between her and her no-frills, Shakespeare-loving best friend, Jules (chapter titles offer contemporary riffs on Shakespearean lines, e.g. "What Light from Yonder Laptop Breaks"). The tension between the girls reaches the breaking point when Jules's long-planned birthday party conflicts with the gala crowing the winner of the Glitter Girl contest. Though foreseeable, the reconciliation between the girls is credible and carries some emotional heft. Ages 10âup.

November 1, 2013
A fashion-savvy eighth-grader's blog garners the attention of a major company. Due to her skill in discerning forthcoming fashions, Kat is selected to be an Alpha Girl. As one of 50 throughout the country, Kat is chosen to have a sleepover party featuring a new line of teen products and entered into a contest to become the "Face of Glitter Girl." However, Kat's fantastic opportunity soon illuminates the differences between her and best friend, Jules, who is skeptical of the project. It also creates tension in Kat's developing romance with Jules' older brother, Kyle. Events culminate in a crisis when Kat discovers that the party to reveal the winner of the contest coincides with Jules' 14th birthday party. Runkle and Webb's narrative convincingly conveys the emotions of the characters, allowing readers to consider both sides of Kat and Jules' conflict. They address dilemmas familiar to young adolescent readers, such as friends growing apart and the longing for acceptance. The authors also include more lighthearted milestones, adeptly portraying the giddiness of first dates and first kisses. By the story's resolution, Kat demonstrates maturity in evaluating her priorities and accepting responsibility for her choices. Runkle and Webb deliver an empowering message about striving to be true to oneself for middle school readers. (Fiction. 11-14)

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