Debbie Palermo, a freshman at Waverly Hills, is a misfit and an outcast. She believes that this is so because she is smart, which was acceptable in elementary school but not in high school, where only popularity and looks are important. Forthright and determined, Debbie tackles her first year with apprehension.

Maggie Palermo is a year older than her sister and a superstar at school.

President of the sophomore class, drama group leader, and star performer, she was a good friend to Debbie until she metamorphosed from the friendly, understanding Maggie into the cool-as-ice Margaret.

Karen Jackson, another freshman, is Debbie's best friend. Their class schedules are identical, but after Karen becomes involved in the drama club, she and Debbie see less and less of each other. Karen is depicted as a courageous girl who stands up for what she believes is right.

Murray...