The Duff ─ Designated Ugly Fat Friend

Duff stands for “designated ugly fat friend.” And while 17-year-old Bianca isn’t that fat or ugly, that’s what Wesley calls her as he tries to hook up with her more desirable gal pals. But Bianca has a surprise for him when she kisses him in response. Then, as her life gets more complicated (parents divorcing, father back on the bottle), she finds it easy to drown her own sorrows in their hot, no-strings-attached sex. There are subtle strings, however, especially as Bianca and Wesley find they are not quite what the other supposed. Lots of language, plenty of sex (well, instances, if not images), and contemporary references make this feel of the moment. But the underlying worry about one’s place in the sun is eternal. Teens will relate, even though the problems, especially at home, seem a retread and the characterizations are on the thin side. What’s best here is Bianca’s brazen voice. Even when confused, she is truer to herself than most. Grades 9-12. --Ilene Cooper --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Kody Keplinger first wrote the DUFF when she was 17, and will be 19 by the time it pubs. She grew up in Kentucky, but currently attends Ithaca College in New York. The DUFF is Kody's first novel. Her second novel will pub on Poppy in Fall 2011.