Ten Miles Past Normal

Ten Miles Past Normal
By Frances O'Roark Dowell
Atheneum Books for Young Readers, 2011. 211 pgs. Young Adult

Janie begged to live on a farm when she was younger and was surprised when she got her dream. Years later, the novelty has worn off when her social status as a high school freshman is not helped by the goat poop she has on her shoe. Janie’s beginning as a freshman is further frustrating by not having the same lunch period as her old middle school friends. But then she meets Monster (his real name) who is larger than life, literally, and starts a project with her best friend’s wild older sister and some civil rights activists. These happenings change Janie’s outlook on life and she determines to become bigger and better than normal. Janie is very likable and Monster is charming in this lighthearted read. Fans of Joan Bauer will enjoy this one.

MN