When an adult neighbor is brutally murdered during a high-school house party, everyone in school seems to have an idea who did it, but no one will go to the police.
Jen was there and saw the body and she has her own ideas about who is responsible. As a reporter for the school TV show, she decides to try and uncover the truth and discover if a classmate's increasingly violent behavior is to blame. When she and others begin digging too deeply, violence flares in the small community. Finally, Jen is forced to take a stand, one that may cost her more than she could imagine.
This short novel is a high-interest, low-reading level book for teen readers who are building reading skills, want a quick read or say they don’t like to read! Available in Spanish as La verdad. The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.
"Explore[s] universal themes of truth and justice and their relation to teenage culture, with appeal to readers of all abilities."
– VOYA
"[A] tightly written hi-lo mystery...Recommended."
– Canadian Book Review Annual
“Carefully crafted for reluctant readers, the novel is riveting, fast paced and suspenseful. It will especially appeal to female teen readers who will easily relate to the main character’s experiences...Kyi is deadly accurate in her characterization of teens and their code of silence. The subject matter and plot are complex, making the novel a satisfying read. Highly recommended.”
– CM Magazine
"With a solid plot and likable characters, this novel holds the reader's attention all the way through."
– Resource Links
American Library Association (ALA) Popular Paperback for Young Adults | 2006 | Commended
Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA) Quick Picks | 2004 | Commended
The Crime Writers of Canada Arthur Ellis Award | 2003 | Short-listed
Canadian Children's Book Centre (CCBC) Our Choice | 2004 | Commended
Forest of Reading Golden Oak Award | 2005 | Nominated
Pennsylvania School Librarians Association (PSLA) Top Forty | 2003 | Commended
