Ellen is an Oriental, or Asian as her sister corrects her, in her senior year of high school. She is following her perfect sister's footsteps, yet trying to be herself. Big sister did not llike sports, and Ellen has been on the gymnastics team since grade 9, but has yet to earn a letter. Racist comments are a book-long theme, and there is underage drinking and strong language throughout the book. Ellen does grow and mature, and this is shown in the story. Although the reading level is 9-12, I will Not allow my 12yo to read this. It is much better for a junior or senior in high school, not because it is hard reading but because of the subject matter.

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