The View from the Top

With wry observations and quirky humor, critically acclaimed novelist Hillary Frank gives life to six unique teens whose voices intertwine to tell the story of a shared summer of love, family, and friendship.

“Hillary Frank has a gift for capturing life’s odd beauty and hilarious awkwardness. Her writing—honest and tender, full of humor and heartbreak—is instantly engaging and expertly observed.”—Davy Rothbart, Found magazine and This American Life contributor

“This Russian stacking doll of a novel is exquisite.”—Lauren Mechling, author of Dream Girl and co-author of the 10th Grade Social Climber series

Tobin won’t miss anything about life in Normal, Maine, when he leaves for conservatory . . . except for his dream girl.

Jonah would give up his player ways—and his best friend—for a chance with his best friend’s girlfriend.

Lexi desperately hopes that her crush will see her in a new light, but fears that her love will remain unrequited.

Matt is anxiously clinging to the past, afraid that he won’t be a part of his girlfriend’s brighter future.

Mary-Tyler wishes people would look past her weight and wealth and accept her for who she is.

And then there’s Anabelle, the one who ties them all together. Expecting a quiet summer at home before heading off to college, instead she finds herself trying to sort out her love life and make sense of her increasingly complicated friendships. Anabelle begins to question how well her friends really know her . . . and how well she knows herself.