Surprisingly good, imo. ?áIncludes warm humor, and some truly good advice about how to relate to other kids, both potential friends and bullies (who are, after all, in a way, potential friends too). ?áA quick light read that is still thought-provoking and memorable. ?áLara isn't the only one who learns that middle school doesn't have to be a 'war zone' and Emily not the only one who learns that emulating Spinelli's Stargirl might be taking things a bit too far. ( )

Lara believes herself to be a Loner By Choice establishes herself as a Friendship Matchmaker, a sort of counselor and platonic dating service in one. Then she gets into a competition with a new girl who believes Lara's rules for friendships are insane and mean giving up everything you are, so are these friendships really genuine?

Predictable ending, bland plot, only minor acknowledgement that The Rules really are terrible ideas (pretend to love a thing that someone else loves, make sure your hair and clothing are completely nondescript, etc). Upper-elementary; even 6th graders will probably find this too young for them. ( )

This is a sweet, girly story. Judy Blume without the edge and just right for upper elementary school readers. The likeable narrator will win over young readers (her heart's so clearly in the right place, even if her methods seem suspect). While the ending's a little too neat, kids will easily identify with the trials and tribulations of making new friends. ( )