Special topics in calamity physics

Hooray! What a terrific read! This first novel by Pessl defies labels and genres. A bit of a coming of age novel, witty literature of the highest order, and a murder mystery all wrapped up in the best read of the summer. Protagonist Blue van Meer, a 16 year-old valedictorian candidate narrates her senior year at the prestigous private school where she hangs out with "blue bloods" and a magnetic teacher, Hannah Schneider. Blue tells us of her interests and her life with her widower father, Dr. Gareth van Meer, a visiting professor of Political Science. Blue, a voracious reader and fanatic foot-noter uses her intellect and curiousity to unravel strange happenings and what seems to be the perfect murder. Blue is sweet, honest, fearless and quite the wit. I hope she makes another appearance soon.