Alexandra Robbins
Description
New York Times–Bestseller: "An excellent overview of the complex social environment of high school . . . often humorous and touching . . . Very highly
...
recommended." — Library Journal (starred review)
These are the true stories of seven people grappling with the uncertainties of high school social life: The Loner, who has withdrawn from classmates since they persuaded her to unwittingly join her own hate club; The Popular Bitch, a cheerleading captain both seduced by and trapped within her clique's perceived prestige; The Nerd, whose differences cause students to laugh at him and his mother to needle him for not being "normal"; The New Girl, determined to stay positive as classmates harass her for her mannerisms and target her because of her race; The Gamer, an underachiever in danger of not graduating, despite his intellect and his yearning to connect with other students; The Weird Girl, who battles discrimination and gossipy politics in school but leads a joyous life outside of it; and The Band Geek, who is alternately branded too serious and too emo, yet annually runs for class president.
In a smart, entertaining, reassuring book, Alexandra Robbins explains the fascinating psychology and science behind popularity and the outcast experience. She reveals that the things that set students apart in high school are the things that help them stand out later in life. These intertwining narratives "beautifully demonstrate . . . that the people who are excluded and bullied for their offbeat passions and refusal to conform are often the ones who are embraced and lauded for those very qualities in college and beyond" ( The New York Times). The Geeks Shall Inherit the Earth is essential reading not just for students, teachers, and parents but for all of us, because at some point in our lives we've all been on the outside looking in.
"Required reading for anyone who has ever felt left out . . . or misunderstood. Schools everywhere would do well to incorporate it into their curriculum. Robbins' ode to the cafeteria fringe will have you laughing, cheering, shocked." — Chicago Sun-Times
"Insightful and timely . . . with an effective list of tips for parents, teachers, students, and schools." — Publishers Weekly
"Offers real hope to adolescents . . . the students and their stories are thoroughly engaging . . . not just entertaining but important." — Kirkus Reviews
Read more