Bree Boyd is a Legend!
Leah Johnson, illustrated by Mirelle Ortega
Scholastic

Thirteen year old Bree Boyd spends her life trying to live up to her father’s high expectations and the shining examples set by her older sisters Lex (state debating champion) and Christian (at law school); Boyd Black Excellence is what it’s called. Dad a college professor is currently campaigning to become the next state senator. Her mother has left the family home. Bree, an ace speller and winner of spelling bees, studies with her tutor leaving little time to spend with her closest friends, Sammy, Abby and Ellie.

Having reached the next level in the spelling competition she starts feeling distracted and when a lightening strike knocks out the power to her home, she flips a switch on the breaker and gets an electric shock that gives her telekinetic powers. With this new-found ability Bree is able to help her friends and have some fun but with the approach of the district spelling bee, Dad ups the pressure and she’s completely torn between loyalty to her Dad or her friends with whom she’s agreed to perform. Even worse, the final spelling bee and the talent show are on the same day. It feels like her life is spinning out of control. However she has to decide whether to stick to her father’s plan or follow her own path.

Infused with humour, this is a very credible portrayal of the inner turmoil suffered by youngsters who have huge adult pressure put upon them and it’s wonderful to see the protagonist working out the true meaning of ‘being best’. There are many poignant moments and it’s great the way the Boyd siblings support one another; how each of them continues to grow despite everything and how they eventually work out how to communicate with their dad.

Recommended for readers from around eleven.