the year of secret assignments by jaclyn moriarty

Probably best for junior high students, the lack of sexual content and language makes this book a great choice for both school and public libraries.-Kimberly L. The author artfully weaves the correspondence of the three pairs into one fluid story and includes both humor and serious food for thought. Although the opening pages might lead the reader to believe that they are about to enter into a world of fluff, the characters are surprisingly well developed, and teens of both genders will become caught up in the lives and adventures of these six high school students.

Told entirely in letters, e-mail messages, and journal and diary entries, this story is truly an original. Emily and Lydia eventually come to her rescue, and with the help of Charlie and Seb, the group turns the tables on Cassie's miscreant correspondent. Her penpal, calling himself Matthew Dunlap, at first refuses to write, and then sucks Cassie into a web of lies with nearly devastating results. Quiet Cassie, however, still grieving the loss of her father to cancer, takes part in a very different exchange. Charlie, Emily, Seb, and Lydia carry on an interesting repartee, which eventually leads to crushes and dates and secret assignments. When their English teacher institutes a mandatory penpal program with a nearby public school, however, the girls' correspondence with Charlie, Seb, and Matthew starts to reveal their insecurities, strengths, and strong bonds to their loved ones. Voice of Youth Advocates (J1-3) At first glance, Emily, Cassie, and Lydia are self-absorbed, Australian private school girls enjoying a lifelong friendship and a comfortable life.

The year of secret assignments by jaclyn moriarty