About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the pressure to fit in or feels like an outsider because they do not have the latest trends, gadgets, or social polish. It is a timeless balm for the 'uncool' child who possesses a heart of gold but feels invisible in a fast-paced, image-conscious world. The story follows Polly Milton, a simple country girl visiting wealthy friends in the city, where she must navigate being teased for her outdated clothes and quiet manners. As Polly matures from age fourteen into adulthood, the narrative explores the power of staying true to one's values despite peer pressure. While the setting is nineteenth-century Boston, the emotional core deals with universal themes of self-confidence, the pain of being left out, and the long-term rewards of kindness. It is an excellent choice for middle-schoolers who are starting to notice social hierarchies and need a reminder that their character is more valuable than their wardrobe.
