by Mary F. Van Der Linden (Author)

Eighth-grader Natalie Stevens has never had a friend who lived next-door. So, when the Bellavia

family moves there, Natalie can hardly contain her excitement, especially since Patrizia, the

oldest of the Bellavia kids, is also in eighth grade.

Charged with helping Patrizia become familiar with her new school, Natalie gladly takes on the

assignment, sure that the two will become immediate friends. She does not even consider they

might be very different from one another, or that Patrizia's weight, Italian name, and traditions

might make her the target of the school bully.

From the moment the girls meet, Natalie finds herself on an emotional journey. Family life at the

Bellavia household is steeped in tradition. From their food to a Friday night family custom, to

even praying the rosary and other components of Patrizia's Catholic faith, Natalie finds she is

constantly questioning and learning. This experience serves as a catalyst to Natalie developing an

interest in art, where she must decide if others' opinions matter enough to stifle her new passion.

Together the girls help each other face down their individual obstacles, lift each other up, learn

compassion for Patrizia's bully, and bring together a community.