There is something about it that's so wonderful.' - NPR They love to talk about the friendships, I love that I am discussing all of these issues through the lives of these girls. “The book's truth is as vibrant as its art.” - Washington Post “Fresh and funny.” - New York Times Book Review “A natural suggestion for fans of Cece Bell and Raina Telgemeier, this book offers an honest, empathetic, and encouraging narrative for young readers braving the ups and downs of the tween years.” - Horn Book

This glimpse into middle school is insightful, introspective, and important.” - Kirkus Reviews, starred review “A must-read for fans of Raina Telgemeier or Victoria Jamieson.

This authentic, important book will mean a great deal to many kids.” - School Library Journal, starred review “A terrific look at middle school culture. “This uncommonly honest portrayal of the lures and pitfalls of popularity will likely ring true to many elementary and middle-school readers.” - Booklist, starred review “Somehow, Hale and Pham have made the “normal girl” into the ultimate cool girl.” - The New York Times Book Review A graduate of the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, LeUyen lives in Los Angeles with her husband and two sons. Her own books include The Bear Who Wasn't There and Big Sister, Little Sister. She is the co-creator, along with Shannon Hale, of the bestselling graphic memoirs Real Friends, Best Friends, and Friends Forever. Morris and the bestselling Princess in Black series by Shannon and Dean Hale. LeUyen Pham has illustrated more than one hundred books for children, including the Caldecott Honor book Bear Came Along by Richard T. She and her husband, the author Dean Hale, have four children and live near Salt Lake City, Utah.

She also wrote three novels for adults, including Austenland, now a major motion picture starring Keri Russell. Shannon Hale is the Newbery Honor–winning and New York Times bestselling author of the Princess Academy series, The Books of Bayern, Book of a Thousand Days, Dangerous, and the graphic novels Rapunzel's Revengeand Calamity Jack, as well as the Ever After High and Princess in Black series, and the upcoming The Unbeatable Squirrel Girl for Marvel.

Best friends shannon hale