[LIT] math as metaphor

[ncteach]

Sorry if this is cross-posted:

Hi All,

I have been reading (and reviewing) YA books all summer, looking for 
terrific titles for my 6th graders. I recently read one that is unlike 
anything I've read before...Tess, the main character, uses math, 
specifically algebra, as a metaphor for trying to find her way through 
middle school life. Title: The Writing on the Wall by Wendy Lichtman. (She 
also has one prior to this...Secrets, Lies, and Algebra...but it's not 
necessary to read them in order.)

I love the book because I think it will encourage my girls (who love math 
but don't want to seem like a "geeks")to "follow their bliss" so to speak.

I have written a review here if you would like to read it:
http://snipurl.com/32kx5

Does anyone know of some good books they would like to suggest? (I have $200 
to spend on my classroom library.) I teach 6th grade language arts and 
social studies (inclusion class...also several ESL students).

Kim