Description
Adina has always wanted to be a part of the annual fashion show at her school for the arts.
Now that Adina is finally in the ninth grade, she and her friends can audition. She knows their act could be perfect. They've got great music, gorgeous costumes and wicked dance moves. But Willow is being her usual flaky self, and Sandra's getting touchy. Maybe even a bit mean. Luckily, Seth remains steady and reliable. Their biggest competition is the annoyingly perfect Prima Donnas, who are doing everything they can to undermine Adina and her friends. Adina is used to working hard at everything she does, including her violin, art, drama and singing classes. But her friends are getting sick of her ordering them around. They just don't get what a huge deal this is. When one of the Prima Donnas gets injured during their audition, minutes after Sandra storms off in a huff, the two groups realize that in order to succeed, they may have to work together.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for middle-grade readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read!
Contributor Notes
The author of four books for children, Raquel Rivera has lived and worked in Washington D.C., Kuala Lumpur, Singapore, Barcelona and Toronto (where she was born and raised). She now lives in Montreal, Quebec, with her family.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 9 to 12
- Grade:
- 4 to 7
- Reading age:
- 9 to 12
Editorial Reviews
"Rivera succeeds in creating real tensions between the youngsters—readers will wonder throughout whether they'll be able to pull it off—and their final act comes together with a surprising twist. Kudos to Rivera, whose dance routine details, in addition to the shimmery gold costumes, make the acts come alive."
— Montreal Review of Books (MRB)
"Many thoughtful themes emerge that will keep students talking: how words can hurt others, bullying, Hindi culture, body image, boys in the arts, co-operation that leads to real friendship. Younger teens interested in the arts will be satisfied by this short, easy to read novel and inspired by the collaboration of Adina and her friends."
— Resource Links
Show Mode…is a good read with strong and interesting characters who learn and grow from their mistakes. The quick moving plot keeps the story interesting and gives the reader a realistic glimpse into the world of performing. Recommended.
— CM: Canadian Review of Materials
