"Junior high will be a blast," promises Andrea Manetti's best friend. But while exciting things are happening at school—new friends, boys, and a chance to star in the musical—Andrea's home life is falling apart. Her parents are always fighting; her mom's new job means Andrea has to help more with the family. And then there's Andrea's brother. Can Andrea keep her family together—and keep their secrets from getting out? And why does the boy at school who hates her seem to be the only one who understands her?