Lessons from a Dead Girl

"Knowles does a credible job of exploring friendships, particularly those of girls, in all their complexity and depth." -- Teenreads.com, November 2007

"The concise, clear style of this short novel belies the sophistication of its subject matter... [Knowles'] characterizations are sharp and nuanced, and she handles Leah, Laine, and the complex dynamic between them with respect and insight." -- School Library Journal, December 2007

"[Readers will] be riveted by this haunting story of a girl's journey to understanding." -- Booklist, December 1, 2007

Spare and evocative prose weaves the story of Leah and Lainey's turbulent and abusive friendship. Fast friends from a young age, Leah is outgoing, "smart, so the teachers love her and . . . beautiful so the boys love her," while Lainey is plain and introspective. During the younger years of their friendship, Leah is sexually abusive to Lainey, claiming that the two are "practicing." As the girls grow older, Lainey pulls away from Leah, confused and hurt by Leah's opprobrious behavior. Lainey falls in with new friends, while Leah becomes self-destructive. Over time, Lainey comes to understand the roots of Leah's odd behavior, but by the time she comes to fully grasp it, it's too late. Clearly and concisely written, Knowles's provoking exploration of children abusing children portrays the tense and finely crafted dynamics between the two girls. Lainey's character is extremely well-developed showing her metamorphosis from hypercritical and withdrawn to self-realized with a focused and knowing clarity. A razor-sharp examination of friendship, abuse and secrets. (Fiction. YA) -- Kirkus, October 1, 2007 --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.