Amanda Walsh, nicknamed Zero, was all set to go to The School of the Art Institute of Chicago after graduating high school, but although she got accepted, she was denied the merit scholarship that would have allowed her to afford the college. After getting in a fight with her best (and only) friend and meeting a drummer in a punk band, Zero’s summer plans immediately change direction. Snarky but sensitive Zero has reached a crossroads in her life and she needs to choose her next path carefully. Should she follow her artist path or focus on her new boyfriend? It’s not like she can ask her constantly fighting parents for advice. This angsty coming-of-age story is honest and raw with a narrator worth cheering on (although she might not want you to waste your time!) With mature content, however, this is really for an older high school audience who can relate to Zero’s adult decisions. 294 pages Ages 14 and up 978-0375869211
Recommended by Carrie Shaurette, New York City Librarian, New York USA
