This story is taken straight from the headlines about the 2019 college admission scandals. Chloe is an average student who struggles with her SAT scores and college prospects. Her best friend (a Nigerian American who studies and works hard) and her boyfriend (more of a privileged golden boy) both have their sights set on Harvard. Chloe definitely doesn't have what it takes to get into Southern California College, which her TV actress mother wants her to attend. The book begins with Chloe's mother being arrested at gunpoint. Through flashbacks we find out how the cheating took place and what Chloe knew and didn't know. The story sticks closely to the truth as it was reported in the papers, but adds a sister who is aware of the injustice and a best friend who is directly hurt by the cheating. I found it to be an engaging story and an intriguing glimpse into how the "one percent" justify their own privilege. I think there are middle schoolers who will be very intrigued by this book. Publication was delayed--this book will be published in December 2020. ARC provided by netgalley. Recommended for grade 7-up.
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