From the Publisher
Kirkus Reviews 150 Most Anticipated Books of the Fall
“What new classics should look like. A strange and beautiful tale that will bring transformation not only to Greta, but those who have veiled secrets. This story will spark important discussions, a read to share in groups.” —Newbery Medalist Donna Barba Higuera
"Greta is a thought-provoking, heartfelt, and hopeful coming-of-age novel about the power of friendship and the possibility of healing. A highly imaginative, compelling story that will take readers on a life-changing journey." —Bestselling author Alyson Gerber
“This peculiar tale is a pitch-perfect encapsulation of middle school. Lemon demonstrates a deep understanding of the richness and intensity of adolescent friendship . . . Friendship, healing, and being at peace with one’s self are at the heart of this moving and original story.” —Kirkus Reviews
“Written in a comic, quick, contemporary style, this combines common themes of growing up and the inherent stresses of adolescence with a fantasy element that begs the questions: Is there a different way to grow up, and can you choose to literally be perfectly in your own skin? . . . Using humor and a leap of fantastical faith, while sparely and sensitively exploring complex experiences (including a troubling incident concerning consent), Greta’s story will appeal to readers experiencing their own times of transition.” —Booklist
Kirkus Reviews
2024-06-15
Middle school is a time of change for everyone, but especially for Greta, who undergoes a major transformation.
Everything feels different in seventh grade. Greta Goodwin’s classmates seem obsessed with their developing bodies and having boyfriends. Meanwhile, Greta’s dreading an upcoming move to a new house that’s farther away from her best friend, Lotti Messina. When a boy named Derek invites Greta to a party, she’s excited about the attention but nervous about what the experience will entail. When Lotti quickly pairs off with a different boy, Greta is left alone with Derek, and everything turns sour. In the aftermath, Greta doesn’t feel right in her body, but then she starts to transform, shedding her skin and turning orange…and that’s just the beginning. At first, the experience is scary and embarrassing, but she gradually begins to feel powerful, beautiful, and at ease with herself. This peculiar tale is a pitch-perfect encapsulation of middle school. Lemon demonstrates a deep understanding of the richness and intensity of adolescent friendship. The narrative is ripe for discussion; its unique direction might be too mind-boggling for some, but for others it will land perfectly and resonate deeply. Sexual assault is sensitively handled, and the backmatter offers further guidance. Most characters appear white.
Friendship, healing, and being at peace with one’s self are at the heart of this moving and original story.(Fiction. 10-14)
