The Diamonds
by Ted Michael

    THE DIAMONDS by Ted Michael
    Category:  Contemporary
    Age Recommendation:  Grades 9+
    Release Date:  4/14/09
    Publisher:  Delacorte
    Reviewed by:  Jaglvr
    Rating:  4 Stars


    Marni Valentine is a “Diamond.”  The Diamonds are the four girls who basically run Bennington School.  The name
    developed when someone made a comment about their matching diamond necklaces when they were freshman.

    Marni couldn’t believe her luck when Clarissa took her into the fold.  Being accepted by Clarissa brought instant
    popularity and acceptance.  Which helped Marni, as she wasn’t nearly as rich, smart, or pretty as the other three
    girls:  Clarissa, Priya, and Lili.

    The girls show they are true friends when they come to Marni’s aid the day Marni’s boyfriend, Jed, publicly dumps
    her over the morning announcements.  During an AP Government class mock trial, Clarissa turns the table on Jed
    and his new girl, and soon the rest of the school is giving Jed and Darcy the cold shoulder.  Because of their
    composure and confidence, their teacher, Mr. Townsen, suggests the girls join the Mock Trial team.

    Before long, the Mock Trial team has turned into a mechanism that the Diamonds use to control the school.  Fellow
    students are trying each other and the Diamonds create new rules that the administration unwittingly agrees with.

    It isn’t until Marni finds herself involved with Clarissa’s ex-boyfriend that the full brunt of the Diamonds’ power is
    turned against her.  She is disowned by her friends and takes refuge with the most unlikely group of people,
    including her ex-boyfriend, Jed.  

    Marni tries to get the administration to realize that the Diamonds are up to no good, but she gets blown off and
    realizes that if she wants to remove the Diamonds and get the school back to normal, she’ll have to do it herself,
    with her new friends.

    THE DIAMONDS was a fascinating look into the inner workings of a private school.  It shows the reader how a
    seemingly small idea can blossom and get out of control.  Marni enjoyed being on the inside but it isn’t until she’s
    cast out of favor that she truly becomes a decent person.  She learns that everyone has something positive they can
    contribute and not to judge others by outward appearances alone.  

    THE DIAMONDS is written as Marni’s testimony on why she does what she does.  It flows quickly and has
    entertaining moments.  It’s also scary to realize that situations like the ones in the story could actually happen if
    teens don’t fight for what is right.