Dear Student

Autumn’s best friend has moved away, right at the beginning of sixth grade. Her father has also moved, choosing to pursue his dream of joining the Peace Corps. All she knows is that the timing is unbelievably poor. She’s looking for friends, but also trying to follow her father’s advice to become involved in just one activity.

Not being athletically inclined, Dear Student, a school newspaper advice column sounds like something she might enjoy. Autumn applies for the coveted but secret position and is amazed when she is given the job. At first it is fun, but then, as sides are taken and lines are drawn over the arrival of a cosmetics company that uses animal testing, Autumn must decide which side to take, which friend to support, and which friend to lose.

With a focus on family, friends, and furballs, Swartz has delicately handled animal testing in a way that resonates with kids while encouraging self-respect and courage. While some responses may seem more than a sixth grader would utter, the feelings behind them are right on target. Heartfelt and honest, readers of Gordon Korman and Lynda Mullaly Hunt will enjoy this trek into middle school.