I was struggling with whether to give this three or four stars, until I finally realized that I'm just being biased because I'm an elementary school counselor like Carla. I had a few issues with the way that she interacted with students (e.g. referring to them as her "friends," trading lunches, etc.). It forced me to take a second to think of when this was published (1987), and how much had changed in regards to laws and all that wonderful education stuff nowadays. I also cringed a number of times when the teacher Mrs. Ebbel participated in bullying Bradley. I had to think about how this can be true too. :/ What makes this a four star is he overall message that even the "troubled" kids need (and DESERVE) love and attention too. In fact, this is exactly why my heart followed the career path that I'm in. I'd definitely recommend this book to others. In fact, I'm hoping to start a book club of sorts with my upper grade students and just might use this book!