Everything Beautiful by Simmone Howell

Riley, a non-religious, self-proclaimed “bad girl” is being sent to Spirit Ranch Holiday Camp by her father and she cannot imagine how she will survive. Riley is determined to maintain her rebellious and hostile attitude at camp, keeping herself isolated from her peers. In spite of herself, Riley begins to form connections with a few other “outcast” campers, including equally hostile and angry Dylan. The more time that Riley spends at camp, particularly with Dylan, she begins to understand herself and ultimately begins to change.

Howell has created a diverse and complex cast of characters that are eccentric, flawed, and extremely likeable (even when they do not want to be). These characters carry the slow moving plot which examines a variety of issues from religion to family dynamics and friendships. Several of the camp bullies are somewhat stereotypical, however, a few turn out to have redeeming qualities. Riley’s sudden and dramatic change over the course of one week strains credibility, however, the plot moves slowly so it feels like more time has passed.