About Average by Andrew Clements

Jordan sees herself as “Plain and Average.” She’s disappointed that she hasn’t accomplished anything of significance as sixth grade draws to a close. Bullied by more successful and popular students, she struggles to maintain her dignity by refusing to retaliate. When a tornado strikes her school, Jordan’s plain and average skills save lives and earn the respect of others. Though not written from a Christian perspective, this juvenile novel reveals that overcoming evil with good makes a lot more sense than striking back. (Atheneum)