""From the first page, ""Queen of the Nerds"" grabbed my attention and wouldn't let go. Brandi's story of trying to find her place in the too-often cruel high school environment is poignant and relatable. The anguish of her sexual assault and subsequent verbal and mental assault by her peers and the continued torment by her attacker is painful to read, but very real and so important. Her courage and almost unwavering cheerfulness bring a message of hope and healing in such a difficult circumstance. Everyone who reads this book will come away with a deeper compassion for assault victims and hopefully a deeper sense of the need to just be kind."" Jennifer Shaw Wolf, author of Breaking Beautiful ""Authentic, compelling, and ultimately hopeful, ""Queen of the Nerds"" is a beautifully told account of what happens when we're too trusting, too focused on what everyone else thinks instead of what WE think. Everyone can learn a lesson from Brandi."" Patty Blount, award-winning author of Someone I Used to Know ""The author's ability to bring Brandi's story to life in a way that is both painful and vital for readers to understand is truly impressive. By tackling such sensitive and significant issues, the book encourages empathy and kindness while shedding light on the incredible strength required to heal, move forward, and live a positive lifestyle."" Sharon Braxton, author of Crying Shame ""...this solid YA memoir that reads like a novel..."" Society for Children's Book Writers and Illustrators ""I believe that everything happens for a reason and is somehow part of a bigger plan. Writing our stories and letting the world know the time for change has come is the start of a movement."" Jennifer Wheatley-Wolf, author of One Voice Raised, A Triumph Over Rape