"Archer makes a wickedly funny debut. . . . The teens' initial misjudgments of one another fuel much of the initial comedy, while Archer's knowing prose gives even the old-fashioned moral a hip ring."--"Publishers Weekly," Starred Review
"Archer displays a sure sense of teens' dialogue, anxieties, and, best of all, humor . . . Clever, hip, and satisfying, this will attract many readers, who will look forward to the sequels suggested at the story's close."--"Booklist"
"This pleasant read offers food for thought for even the most reluctant reader. The strength of the story lies in its realistic portrayal of teen insecurity and the need to have love and structure in a seemingly hostile world. . . . Fans of Ann Brashares's "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants" will enjoy this tale of feisty young women on the brink of adulthood."--"Voice of Youth Advocates"
"The Poison Apple members . . . are entertaining and their hyperbolic tales of woe might be what's most appealing to gossip-loving adolescents."--"Kirkus Reviews"
"Good fun."--"School Library Journal"
"[A] Funny, often poignant first novel . . . What sets the book apart from many in the boarding school genre is the underlying compassion these three retain, despite their new and uncertain circumstances. . . . Readers will hope for more from this likable trio--and this talented storyteller."--"Shelf Awareness"

LILY ARCHER lives in New York City, where she reads the dictionary for fun and secretly hankers for a pet penguin. She has known many stepmothers; some kind, others wicked.