It’s 1959 and eleven-year-old Abby Shapiro wants three things: a Barbie doll, a training bra, and to be Jackie Kennedy’s fashion designer. But as this coming-of-age story progresses, her true problems arise-- trying to find a place as a very American girl in her extended Jewish family, conflicts with the neighbors, a troubled relationship with her mother, and her deadbeat dad. Abby finds comfort and strives to handle these issues by talking with her Aunt Rina and writing sweet and often long-winded letters to the soon-to-be first lady, including fashion sketches for outfit ideas. The sketches are printed throughout the book and are actual drawings created by the author in her childhood, a nice touch for readers who aren’t familiar with the 60’s fashion scene. Overall, though, the letters repeat much of the story narrative and slow the pacing. Readers will appreciate Abby’s growth throughout the novel; she begins as a comedic little girl but progresses believably into a teenager while gaining a new understanding of her place in the community and her family. A glossary of Hebrew and Yiddish terms is included. Would make a great read for a mother-daughter book club. Recommended for ages 10 and up. ( )