Brett McCarthy:Work in Progress

Maria Padian

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Brett McCarthy lives for vocabulary words, soccer, and her larger-than-life grandmother, Nonna. Unfortunately, Brett's got a big mouth she can t seem to tame and opinions she can t keep to herself. And she's obsessed with the moment she became redefined and went from good student, bestfriend-to-Diane to twice-suspended, friendless, and deadest meat in Maine. Soon her world has turned upside down, and she's not sure where she fits, what she should do, or how to make right what she, and her big fat mouth, have made wrong. Brett's fresh and funny voice will keep readers laughing out loud at her plights, groaning in sympathy at every misstep, and rooting for her as things go from bad to worst ever possible.

Brett McCarthy: Work in Progress was an ALA-YALSA Best Book for Young Adults, a Parade Magazine Pick and an Association of Booksellers for Children New Voices Pick.  It received a Maine Literary Award and the Maine Lupine Honor Award

Reviews
"[A] hilarious coming-of-age story."
                                        - Parade Magazine

"Forceful and heartwarming, this coming-of-age story examines what happens when old friends are outgrown and loved ones are no longer there to lean on."
                                        - Publishers Weekly, starred

" ... poignant and honest. ... Padian's fully-developed characters and ear for teenage voices make this a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt alone in a crowd."
                                       - School Library Journal

“[Brett is] a character with strength and determination, and her drive and competitive spirit make her a believable heroine on the soccer field. … The book offers a vivid depiction of life in a small coastal Maine town.”
                                        - The Bulletin

"Brett is an extremely likeable teen dealing with a crazy middle school year. ... Debut author Padian has something for everyone in this book."
                                        - Teens Read Too, Gold Star review

" ... a really great 'feel good' book that you also need a box of Kleenex nearby when you read."
                                        - Dr. Ruth Clark, "Madchatter"


"This young-adult/teen novel is a smart, hilariously told coming-of-age story. If you've forgotten what being a fourteen-year-old is like, you'll remember.  If you're not yet fourteen, here's looking at you, girl!"
                                        - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Copyright © 2019 Maria Padian
Photo by Greta Rybus