Izzie is restless, and eager to be treated like an adult. So she decides it's time to make some changes. But the new Izzie comes with new problems. First there is Josh Harper, an older, cute-but-wild boy. Then there is her mother, who is opposed to every part of the "new Izzie."

How can Izzie learn about herself and what it means to be grown up -- without upsetting everyone along the way?

Mates, Dates, and Mad Mistakes

FROM THE PUBLISHER

As soon as Mum dropped me off, I made a dive for the ladies room, where I binned the sandwich she'd made me and reapplied my makeup. Mum really didn't understand. I couldn't possibly get up on stage in front of everyone looking like I was dressed for afternoon tea with my grandma....

Izzie is restless, and eager to be greated like an adult. So she decides it's time to make some changes. But the new Izzie comes with new problems. First there is Josh Harper, an older, cute-but-wild boy. Then there is her mother, who is opposed to every part of the "new Izzie." How can Izzie learn about herself and what it means to be grown-up, without upsetting everyone along the way?

FROM THE CRITICS

Teen People

Bridget Jones as a Teen.

School Library Journal

Gr 6-9-Straight-laced Izzy is 15 going on 18. Best mates, Lucy, Nesta, TJ, and Izzy have bonded over the almighty Pringle and gotten their belly buttons pierced. Older, cuter, and charming Josh, aka "park boy," takes an interest in Izzy and she's desperate to grow up and appear "cool" in his eyes. How "fab" would it be to show up to her first public performance with the band on the back of a motorcycle? Discovering her mother has read her private diary doesn't stave off any rebellious acts to prove she's old enough to make her own decisions. But when she passes out with her first cocktail experiment, chokes on her first cigarette, and pukes all over Josh after smoking a joint and kissing, everything seems to go wrong. Being grown up isn't all that it's cut out to be, and Josh's shady friend Spider seems more than a bit creepy. Has Izzy fallen prey to a manipulative charmer? This novel by Cathy Hopkins (Simon Pulse, 2004) is all about growing pains, making the right choices, and knowing your true friends. Shirley Barthelmie's narration is dazzling. Her vibrant voice has a dash of angst, innocence, and sensitivity. This North London, 21st-century version of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (Delacorte, 2001) is fresh, fun, and hilarious. This sixth book in the series is a must for teens. School and public libraries should consider buying multiple copies of the book and audiobook-it will fly off the shelves.-Ann Crewdson, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA Copyright 2006 Reed Business Information.