One criticism many reviewers have made of this book is that it doesn't have much of a plot. I think they are suffering from a basic misconception of what this book is about - an exploration of feelings, in particular that awkward stage when puberty hit and you are no longer just a little girl, but have no real understanding yet of your sexuality or adulthood. This confusion turns many sweet young girls into absolute pills, it did so for my sister, and when I mentioned it to my Mom, she assures me I was even worse. This book is too old for 6th grade, but I really think the best audience for it should be parents who have forgotten what how awkward and painful the years when you aren't a little kid any longer but are still far too immature for teenhood. It should evoke a wave of reminiscence that will help you better endure your suddenly intolerable daughter. 
 Art was superb.