Barnholdt, Lauren. The secret identity of Devon Delaney.

BARNHOLDT, Lauren. The secret identity of Devon Delaney. HarperCollins. 263p. c2007. 14169-3503-7. $5.99. JS

One lie leads to another, and another. Devon's efforts to be loyal to her true friend Mel, while keeping up a front with "summer friend" Lexi, have her head spinning. During the summer Devon stayed with her grandparents and met Lexi. They became fast friends, and Devon became Devi. Like Lexi, Devi wears cutesy clothes, likes "Dance, Dance Revolution," and is a member of the A-list. During the school year, Devon is best friends with Mel, isn't consumed with clothes, and is definitely not on the A-list. Surprise! Lexi moves and now attends Devon's school. Instead of confessing her school personality to Lexi, Devon tells one lie and starts the shift to Devi. Mel's push for Devon to 'fess up strains their friendship and Lexi's discovery of the facade proves to be the final straw. Devon must decide who and what is most important to her.

Barnholdt has written a quick-paced, believable story of modern teens. While searching for the Devon she wants to be, our heroine learns that true friends are found where you least expect them. Holley Wiseman, MLIS, Columbus, OH

J--Recommended for junior high school students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescents and their teachers.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.