Millicent Chalmers isn’t here to make friends.
She’s here to win, and she’s on track to set a record if―no, when―she wins the state debate tournament for the fourth year in a row. Calm, cool, and always in control, Millie doesn’t care what anyone else thinks of her, least of all the sexist bullies bent on destroying her reputation.
Taggart Strong couldn’t care less about winning debate, much to the consternation of his teammates, school and parents. In fact, he might even enjoy losing, as long as the side he believes in wins.
But when a tournament takes a scary turn, Millie and Tag find themselves unexpectedly working together. Maybe Millie can teach Tag a thing or two about using his head, and Tag can teach Millie a little bit about following her heart.
In this witty, smart, and feminist romantic comedy, author Jen Doll explores what it means to set boundaries while breaking down barriers.
"Both main characters are well-developed as individuals within a novel that explores the hostility, harassment, and other challenges faced by many girls who choose to enter the traditionally male-dominated world of debating. Drawing readers into that sphere, this detailed, engaging story delivers both happiness and justice in the end." —Booklist
"Millie’s unapologetic battle against sexism is inspiring, and Tag’s reckoning with his privilege is heartening. Weighty issues and the quirky rivals-to-lovers romance are given equal attention... An unusual, thought-provoking take on advocating for oneself and others." —Kirkus Reviews
"PW contributor and former high school competitor Doll’s (Unclaimed Baggage) passion for debate is genuine and infectious, and the protagonists’ alternating perspectives make for a persuasive read." —Publishers Weekly
“Doll’s well-developed inspirational character arcs show Millie’s and Tag’s separate journeys to become voices for change... Informed by her own high school debate experience, Doll includes an extensive personal note that adds to the authenticity of issues explored in the novel.” —School Library Journal
She’s here to win, and she’s on track to set a record if―no, when―she wins the state debate tournament for the fourth year in a row. Calm, cool, and always in control, Millie doesn’t care what anyone else thinks of her, least of all the sexist bullies bent on destroying her reputation.
Taggart Strong couldn’t care less about winning debate, much to the consternation of his teammates, school and parents. In fact, he might even enjoy losing, as long as the side he believes in wins.
But when a tournament takes a scary turn, Millie and Tag find themselves unexpectedly working together. Maybe Millie can teach Tag a thing or two about using his head, and Tag can teach Millie a little bit about following her heart.
In this witty, smart, and feminist romantic comedy, author Jen Doll explores what it means to set boundaries while breaking down barriers.
• Rise Feminist Book Project Honoree, 2023 Booklist
• Best Teen Book of the Year, Alabama Library Association
• Best Teen Book of the Year, Alabama Library Association
"Both main characters are well-developed as individuals within a novel that explores the hostility, harassment, and other challenges faced by many girls who choose to enter the traditionally male-dominated world of debating. Drawing readers into that sphere, this detailed, engaging story delivers both happiness and justice in the end." —Booklist
"Millie’s unapologetic battle against sexism is inspiring, and Tag’s reckoning with his privilege is heartening. Weighty issues and the quirky rivals-to-lovers romance are given equal attention... An unusual, thought-provoking take on advocating for oneself and others." —Kirkus Reviews
"PW contributor and former high school competitor Doll’s (Unclaimed Baggage) passion for debate is genuine and infectious, and the protagonists’ alternating perspectives make for a persuasive read." —Publishers Weekly
“Doll’s well-developed inspirational character arcs show Millie’s and Tag’s separate journeys to become voices for change... Informed by her own high school debate experience, Doll includes an extensive personal note that adds to the authenticity of issues explored in the novel.” —School Library Journal