In 1993, when Melissa’s family decides to move across the country, she’s thrown from sunny California into the stormy halls of a New Jersey middle school. Melissa struggles to find her footing while simultaneously dealing with puberty, a growing interest in boys, and an increasing amount of anxiety. While navigating these challenges and overcoming amusing twists and turns, she discovers the strength to grow into her own, forming empowering friendships. In this funny, heartwarming tale that echoes themes of feminism, Melissa ultimately learns the true meaning of friendship and finally carves a place for herself in New Jersey.