Never Sit Down in a Hoopskirt and Other Things I Learned in Southern Belle Hell

Gr 9 Up—Jane Ventouras's mother died when Jane was in fifth grade; since then, her shipping-mogul father has shipped her off to 13 elite boarding schools, and she's been kicked out of all 13 of them. As a result, the 17-year-old ends up back in her hometown of Bienville, AL. When her grandmother signs her up for the Magnolia Maid pageant, Jane, the anti-belle, does all she can to avoid being chosen, but when her plans fail and she is named to the court, she must decide if she will accept this position with grace or bring about the downfall of Bienville's grandest tradition before the Maids even make their big debut. At the same time, Jane is trying to figure out if she still has feelings for Luke Churchill, the boy who was her best friend and first kiss before her father sent her away. This breezy read set on the Gulf coast will appeal to readers who love a good friendship story with a mean girl and a little romance in the mix. Jane and the other Maids struggle with one another amid family issues, high fashion, and big money. While troubles arise, friendship wins out and girl power prevails. Offer this to readers who like their chick-lit with a little sweet tea and a lot of Southern sass.—Gina Bowling, South Gibson County High School, Medina, TN