A contemporary YA debut about a Vietnamese-American boy who tries to attain popularity by befriending the most beautiful girl in school, inspired by the Vietnamese-American author's teen experience.
As one of only two Asian American kids in his high school, Gary might as well be invisible. So when the most popular boy in his grade offers him the opportunity to break into their inner circle, he jumps at the chance. All he needs to do is acquire a prized possession from Gloria Buenrostro, the beautiful and mysterious girl he's shared classes with since they were kids.
But as he gets to know Gloria, they form a genuine friendship that's one of the best he's ever had, and Gary realizes that she's more than just a prize to be won—and that no amount of popularity is worth losing a true friend.
Your older teen readers will appreciate the 12 selections in this category, a diverse mix of fiction and nonfiction covering complex issues and more mature content, from crushes and body changes to friendships and sibling rivalry.