Sk8er Boy by Mari Mancusi

Dawn has always been a good girl- well behaved, studious, and is destined for Harvard.. Dawn, however, is tired of the life that “The Evil Ones” (her parents) have dictated to her- she’s tired of the constant extra curriculars and the pressures her parents place on her to succeed. When Dawn meets rebellious Starr, she begins to discover that she enjoys being a bad girl- especially after she meets an adorable skater boy from the wrong side of town.

Mancusi’s first teen novel is a familiar and predictable read. Mancusi’s modern Romeo and Juliet spin is funny and engaging and her characters are well developed and interesting. Dated cultural references will date the title quickly, but girls who pick it up will find a quick and light, but enjoyable read.