Catherine Gilbert Murdock, author of six acclaimed novels, is an avid reader. Of books that aren't for grownups. She lives with her husband, two children and several cats outside Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Visit her website at .

Fourteen-year-old Sarah Zorn intends to spend the Wisconsin summer with her boyfriend Curtis, waiting for a dead calf named Boris to decompose in time for the science fair. Her plans upend, however, when her fake-boyfriend strategy goes seriously awry just as her hippie Grandma Z invites her on a last-minute Roman holiday. As Sarah explores Italys ancient wonders, she cant stop boy-liking Curtis . . . or puzzling over her grandmothers odd behavior. Written as Sarahs journal, this satisfying middle grade novel navigates the murky waters of first love, friendship, and family with heart and good humor.