To avoid getting in trouble at home, three, ninth grade girls: Mariah, Anna and Emma, make up a story about a strange man trying to attack Emma in the park on a Friday night. The truth of the matter was that these three freshmen girls were at an underage drinking party, not where they told their parents they would be.When the parents of the girls get the police involved, one lie becomes so much more. The teachers and community are outraged, that a ninth grade girl was almost raped, and soon they begin a search for a non-existent attacker.
While two of the girls attain almost celebrity status among their peers, the other becomes withdrawn and depressed. When a homeless man is arrested for the reported attack, and things begin to spiral out of control, the girls have no choice but to come clean, and tell what really happened that night.
HARMLESS is classified as a YA book. This review is based on the unabridged audio book, which was told in alternating viewpoints, by three different readers (all very good). Although the plot seemed somewhat contrived, I was still glad I listened to it. It sends an important message to teens; for every action there is a reaction.
RATING - 4/5; COMPLETED - 8/11/09; Library Copy
This book sounds like it could start some great discussions between teens and parents.
ReplyDeleteThat sounds like a book I would really enjoy reading. It's similar to What Mr. Mattero Did, where two students accuse a teacher of doing something inappropriate. Great discussion book!
ReplyDeleteThis looks like a very interesting book, and although I have heard this kind of story before, I still think it would be a good read. My daughter might like it as well. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like an interesting book. A discussion on how much you would lie to get popular sounds like one everybody should be involved in.
ReplyDeleteAnd thanks for your comment on the blog. You made my day!
The story sounds realistic, although I would have to listen to it to really know. Thank you for sharing. =)
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