A Whole Lot of Lucky

Gr 5–8—In this highly enjoyable novel, middle-schooler Hailee Richardson is embarrassed by her garage-sale bicycle, her clothes from Goodwill, and her father's job cleaning carpets. But when her parents win millions in the lottery, her life changes dramatically, and not always for the better. Hailee loves her new cell phone and even reluctantly grows to like her new private school. Her relationship with her longtime best friend becomes strained, however, as Hailee tries to win over her wealthy classmates. She once envied Amanda, who had a beautiful bicycle, but now worries that her old friend will embarrass her. Then Nikki, a girl from her new school, drags Hailee into questionable situations, asking her to ditch school, cheat on a quiz, and even egg another student's house. While Hailee's family enjoys their newfound wealth, the money also brings somewhat predictable problems. Tensions mount toward a moving climax; Hailee learns lessons that will come as no surprise but are satisfying nonetheless. Readers who are not quite ready for the serious problems of more graphic YA novels will enjoy this rather lighthearted story-the "bad girl" is not all that bad, and Hailee triumphs over the "mean girls" while realizing that she has not behaved well herself. This is a solid and pleasurable exploration of friendship, materialism, and how money can change everything.—Miranda Doyle, Lake Oswego School District, OR