Goodbye Stranger

Written by Rebecca Stead

Can childhood friendships survive the challenges of growing up?

3.9/5 Goodreads · 14,730 ratings

320 pages· 53,669 words· Est. 7.5 hour read

$7.99Save 7%

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Bookroo's summary

Bridge, Emily, and Tab face the tumult of seventh grade, testing their pact of no fighting. As Emily attracts new attention and Tab joins a club, Bridge clings to her quirky self. Meanwhile, Sherm ponders the nature of friendship and love. With Valentine's Day looming, the trio must navigate the shifting dynamics of their bond. Will they grow together or apart?

From the publisher

This brilliant, New York Times bestselling novel from the author of the Newbery Medal winner When You Reach Me explores multiple perspectives on the bonds and limits of friendship. Long ago, best friends Bridge, Emily, and Tab made a pact: no fighting. But it’s the start of seventh grade, and everything is changing. Emily’s new curves are attracting attention, and Tab is suddenly a member of the Human Rights Club. And then there’s Bridge. She’s started wearing cat ears and is the only one who’s still tempted to draw funny cartoons on her homework. It’s also the beginning of seventh grade for Sherm Russo. He wonders: what does it mean to fall for a girl—as a friend? By the time Valentine’s Day approaches, the girls have begun to question the bonds—and the limits—of friendship. Can they grow up without growing apart? “Sensitively explores togetherness, aloneness, betrayal and love.” —The New York Times A Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor Book for Fiction Named a Best Book of the Year by The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, The Boston Globe, The Guardian, NPR, and more!