One challenge for Tess, murder. "I think it should be an axiom that if you know of a possible murder, you call the police" (p. 58). Yet, even suspicions regarding murder aren't easily explained as a mathematical equation, especially when emotions of grief get involved. Or at least that is how her mom tries to explain it to Tess.
The second challenge, knowing who and how someone cheated on the state history exam. "...Richard had obviously stolen the test off Mr. Wright's desk and was making a copy so he could put the original one back and not get caught" (p. 4).
8th grade is definitely turning out to be one of Tess' most eventful years. Will math really help her through the complicated events and emotions that 8th grade year will bring? If you want to know check out Secrets, Lies, and Algebra by Wendy Lichtman, today from your library.
