Having read many books by Lauren Barnholdt, ‘Four Truths and a Lie’ certainly lived up to expectations. Detailing the life of eighth grader Scarlett Northon, it delves into her friendship starved world as she starts school at a prestigious institution, the Brookline Academy for Girls. Without friends, she is relegated to being on the outskirts when she is so used to being part of the in-crowd. Not helping matters is the secret she is keeping about her father, as well as her unfriendly roommate, Crissa, who seems to be doing everything in her power to torpedo Scarlett’s chances at s semblance of normalcy. Even when Scarlett tries to fit in by giving makeovers to the girls, she is shot down by the administration, saying that it is taking away from the academic environment she is now a part of at Brookline.

As she finds a friend and begins to feel more comfortable in her new surroundings, she is tested by a letter-writing activity that her English teacher assigns. Talking to a boy from the Brookline Academy for Boys seems innocent enough, until he threatens to reveal her father’s secret, which she fears will once again alienate her from her classmates. How he found out about it keeps her wondering at first, until she realizes the truth behind the matter. The conflicts that ensue as the story progresses are realistic, and they challenge Scarlett to overcome her fears and realize that it isn’t worth it to live in the past, worrying about her dad, when she could be moving forward with her own life.

Barnholdt’s storytelling is interesting and the writing is a breeze to read through since she captures the angst and excitement of teenage life. Scarlett’s journey progresses nicely and wraps up well. A recommended read for anyone who enjoys young adult literature.

You can find ‘Four Truths and a Lie’ by Lauren Barnholdt here.