Wow, what a breath of fresh air. I loved this book, the elusive creature Stargirl and her challenging starcrossed relationship with Leo. The ending has a notably poignant element to it but on reflection that’s well balanced by a strong underlying joy at the magical wonder of living. Susan home schooled until tenth grade has utter disregard for convention by the time she enters Mica High. Her hugely embarrassing behaviour, such as playing the ukulele and singing "Happy Birthday" in the lunchroom appals Leo, a junior. He is both attracted and repelled by this young woman who calls herself Stargirl.

Spinelli’s Stargirl seems untouched by popular culture, genuinely altruistic and contemplative, seemingly egoless, and self-confident. A combination that entrances the sensitive Leo as he grapples with who she is, who he is and who they are together. Leo narrates, in first person, the effects of being friends with Stargirl and it’s a testing journey of self discovery for Leo. This tackles some tough stuff nimbly it’s a great book for teens and adults alike. I’ve been raving about it since I stumbled across it a couple of years ago. Totally delighted to find a copy I can bookcross, Woo Hoo!

Just an initial entry which I shall edit on reading the book... to say a heartfelt thanks for the receipt and I think my daughter will be jealous of the colour! This looks like it will make a great holiday read for when my little one gets her hearts desire of EuroDisney for a weekend after her birthday - so maybe you'll get an editted journal entry late July or early August. Again this was a great choice given the occasion, I like to broaden my reading horizons and may even hang onto this one for my daughter as she gets past the colour of a cover and into the text of "big girls" books! Who knows - it could be her intro to Book Crossing!

RELEASE NOTES:

Given to Maggie, Philippas daughter, on day of a boat trip when I though a nice read could be good.

I had enjoyed this book and tore through it - although it is about an "unusual" child it offers many insights for the adult mind. As a friend says, it is always worth keeping an open mind with children, they have a lot to teach us. And so it is with this book I think!