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Reading Level: 3-4 • Interest Level: 9-12

Every Little Bad Idea

Author: Caitie McKay
Specs: 5 1/2” x 8 1/4” • 200 pp • Written in verse, Excerpt from similar verse book, Suggestions for further reading, About the Author, Hi-lo text
HC ed.: 978-1-5383-8266-0 • $25.80 | $19.40
eBook: 978-1-5383-8333-9 • $25.80 | $19.40
Pbk. ed.: 978-1-5383-8265-3 • $16.35 | $14.20
The women in Skyler Wise’s family have a weakness for bad boys. But not Skyler. She has one thing on her mind: leaving her run-down neighborhood and going to college. When Skyler’s normally strict mom starts dating again, she feels abandoned. Skyler meets Cole, a boy who makes her question everything she thought she knew about herself and her future. Even though he has a dangerous reputation, Skyler believes she knows the real Cole, the sweet, caring boyfriend who makes her feel seen for once in her life. When Cole starts to change, Skyler realizes that she’ll do anything to keep him around, even if it means giving up her dream and losing the people closest to her.
“The author uses poetic verse to draw the reader into Skylar’s head, creating an immediacy and intimacy that make this short novel compelling and resonant. The ensuing heartbreak is mirrored by the novel’s verse, providing a clever presentation of a familiar topic…An appealing choice.” —Kirkus
“Readers will easily relate to this contemporary ‘good girl meets bad boy’ tale, and the struggles of adolescence and coming into one’s own identity…The free verse and short stanzas will draw in reluctant readers, and the lyrical, captivating writing builds an intimate connection to the well-developed characters. Due to its pacing, the audience will witness Skyler’s transformation as if watching a movie, unable to look away. VERDICT Perfect for fans of Ellen Hopkins; with broad appeal for teens, this is highly recommended for young adult collections.” —School Library Journal

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About the Author:
Caitie McKay is a writer and children’s book editor from Buffalo, New York. She graduated with a degree in creative writing from Canisius College, where she was awarded the G.E. Murray Award for Excellence in Creative Writing. She’s written and edited more than 500 educational books for children. This is her first novel. For more information, visit caitiemcwritesalot.com.