“‘Did you see her?’”

From Jerry Spinelli’s Stargirl.

16-year-old Leo is very happy being just a normal, boring part of the student body at his Mica, Arizona high school.  That is until a girl who calls herself Stargirl starts 10th grade at Leo’s school.  Stargirl is nothing if not bold, colorful, and unique; during the first few weeks of school, she isn’t seen anywhere without her ukulele (which she uses to serenade people in the cafeteria) and her pet rat, Cinnamon.  However, despite her constant attempts to brighten the day of those around her, Stargirl is vastly unpopular because she is so different.  Leo watches as the former homeschool student tries to navigates her new public school life with a mix of attraction and embarrassment.  When a bold stunt gets Stargirl a spot on the cheer leading squad, the entire school is captivated, but baffled by the girl who cheers for goals by both teams.  Leo’s best friend Kevin pushes to get Stargirl on the school show they produce, and Leo is finally able to get to know her a bit and realizes how much he’s attracted to her. Nobody really understands Stargirl including Archie, Leo’s retired mentor, but he’s unable to deny the almost-magical pull she has.  However, the longer the two date, the more Leo feels the strain of Stargirl’s uniqueness and Leo will have to decide how far he’s willing to go to be with Stargirl.

Spinelli’s book is full of heart, humor, and a genuineness that makes the story very memorable.  Told through Leo’s perspective, readers have a front row seat to the drama that one kind, unique person can bring to life.  Certain character choices are frustrating along the way, but help create a powerful story by the end. Stargirl is an impossible-to-forget story that emphasizes the power of humanity and kindness, and is not to be missed.