Twelve-year-old Mya Parsons could save the world and organize her family, if only she had her own cell phone. A Dork Diaries for today's socially conscious middle-grade readers.
Mya Parsons runs her school's social justice club with her best friend, Cleo. Her lifelong desire is to work for the United Nations and change the world, and then bask in all the ensuing adulation. Her more immediate desire is to get a phone, preferably one like Cleo's, with a leopard-print case to match. When her distracted dad and her long-distance mom (temporarily in Myanmar taking care of Mya's grandmother) both say no, no way, and possibly never, Mya launches a campaign to prove herself reliable and deserving. She advertises her babysitting services, takes on more responsibility around the house, and attempts to supervise her sister's skateboarding lessons. Her efforts leave her ego bruised and the kitchen slightly scorched. She's no closer to touch-screen victory, let alone the Nobel Peace Prize she deserves. But all that changes after an accident leaves Mya to take charge--an experience which helps her realize how much she's grown, with or without access to proper communications.
On Quill & Quire’s Kidlit Spring Preview 2019, YA, MG, & Non-Fiction
One of CBC’s 29 Canadian Kids Books & YA to Look For in Spring 2019
PRAISE FOR Mya's Strategy to Save the World:
“For any girl going through life, body, and school changes, especially those interested in social activism.” --Kirkus Reviews
“Mya’s passionate—and often clueless—narration is a thoroughly entertaining rant by an overwrought tween with a big heart. . . . With a slim page count, brisk delivery, and trove of discussable topics, this bodes well for classroom as well as independent reading.” --Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Mya’s passion for social justice means that she informs the reader about certain important global issues . . . [she] has a lot of personality and will be enjoyed by middle-school readers." --Highly Recommended, CM Magazine
“Mya’s witty voice and deep desire for a cell phone will keep tween readers engaged . . . [a] welcome addition to middle grade bookshelves.” --School Library Journal
