The Only Girl in School

About this book

When Claire's best friend, Bess, moves away, she becomes the only girl left in her entire school. At first, she thinks she'll be able to deal with this -- after all, the girls' bathroom is now completely hers, so she can turn it into her own private headquarters and draw on the walls. When it comes to soccer games or sailing races, she can face off against any boy.

The problem is that her other best friend, Henry, has begun to ignore her. And Webby, a super-annoying bully, won't leave her alone. And Yucky Gilbert, the boy who has a crush on her, also won't leave her alone.

It's never easy being the only one -- and over the course of a wacky school year, Claire is going to have to make it through challenges big and small. The boys may think they rule the school, but when it comes to thinking on your feet, Claire's got them outnumbered.

Reviews

Praise for The Secret Tree:

"A captivating story about the mysteries of summertime and friendship." -- Rebecca Stead, author of When You Reach Me

* "The intimate neighborhood setting -- with its mysteries, superstitions, and traditions -- the authenticity of Minty's voice, and her worries about the transitioning nature of her life and friendships give Standiford's story a richness that will stay with readers." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review

"Captivating . . . takes its rightful place in the now classic genre of 'neighborhood kids' that began with Beverly Cleary." -- The New York Times Book Review

"A charming and mysterious story of friendship, growing up, and keeping secrets." -- Booklist

A New York Times Notable Book

A Junior Library Guild Selection

Praise for Switched at Birthday:

"A characteristically insightful tale that affirms the importance of true friendship and self-acceptance." --Kirkus Reviews

"Standiford makes a statement about self-identity and empathy without moralizing. The magic and humor of the situations combine to create an enjoyable story." --School Library Journal