Mads is determined to find out who hacked her page and why. Along the way, she rehearses for the school musical (a contemporary version of Hamlet), updates her profile, screams at her finnicky laptop, rolls her eyes at her little brother, and tries to regain the trust of her friends. Ultimately, she realizes who her true friends really are, and learns how hurtful gossip and lies can be. She also kind of falls for another guy, a boy who appreciates fine films, good ice cream, and the simple things in life. (I cheered when he encouraged her to watch Charade, one of my favorite films.)
Madison's profile appears a few times throughout the book, complete with profile pictures of her friends. These pictures are not only next to their comments, but also on the spine of the book. Quotes from books, films, and/or songs start every chapter, noting Madison's mood and current inspiration (or frustration!)
Those who are addicted to MySpace and Facebook will instantly click with Top 8. With its social networking tie-ins and its likable narrator, Katie Finn’s debut novel is timely.
Read my review of Top 8 at SparkLife.