Download high-resolution image
Listen to a clip from the audiobook
audio pause button
0:00
0:00
Told from dual points of view, this novel takes readers into the world of private middle-schoolers as they struggle to reveal what their teacher did . . .

"Riveting and timely, this shocking slice-of-life drama is sure to keep pages turning."—Publishers Weekly

Three junior high school girls—Jenna, Suzanne, and Claire—best friends at Oakdale Middle School, finally summon the courage to speak up about their music teacher, Frederick Mattero.

What happens next is chaos. Parents are called. A teacher is accused and attacked. The gossip mill churns like mad. And police arrive to question other students, beginning with Mr. Mattero’s eighth-grade daughter, Melody, a quiet girl known for her poetry.

Are the three girls simply lying? Did Mr. Mattero do anything inappropriate? And as another girl enters the picture, a complicated situation grows even more complex.
Priscilla Cummings lives in Annapolis, Maryland. View titles by Priscilla Cummings

About

Told from dual points of view, this novel takes readers into the world of private middle-schoolers as they struggle to reveal what their teacher did . . .

"Riveting and timely, this shocking slice-of-life drama is sure to keep pages turning."—Publishers Weekly

Three junior high school girls—Jenna, Suzanne, and Claire—best friends at Oakdale Middle School, finally summon the courage to speak up about their music teacher, Frederick Mattero.

What happens next is chaos. Parents are called. A teacher is accused and attacked. The gossip mill churns like mad. And police arrive to question other students, beginning with Mr. Mattero’s eighth-grade daughter, Melody, a quiet girl known for her poetry.

Are the three girls simply lying? Did Mr. Mattero do anything inappropriate? And as another girl enters the picture, a complicated situation grows even more complex.

Author

Priscilla Cummings lives in Annapolis, Maryland. View titles by Priscilla Cummings

Mental Health Awareness Month Resources

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and educators are increasingly aware that integrating social-emotional learning into the curriculum is critical if we want students to succeed both in and out of the classroom. Download the thematic educator guides on Teaching About Anxiety and Mindfulness and Teaching About Student Wellness. Explore our specially curated collections on

Read more

Books for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

Each May, we honor the stories, histories, and cultures of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. Below is a selection of acclaimed fiction and nonfiction books by AANHPI creators to share with your students this month and throughout the year. AANHPI Creators – Middle School titles AANHPI Creators – High School titles .

Read more