Gertie Foy

Gertie Foy is the central character of the novel. She is in fifth grade and is on a mission to be the best fifth grader ever in order to impress her absentee mother Rachel.

Gertie is rambunctious by nature and has her mission planned out. She modifies her mission as new challenges present themselves, such as Mary Sue transferring to the school and stealing Gertie’s thunder.

Gertie becomes focused on her studies, surprising her family and friends. She sees her grades steadily increase and her confidence is boosted. She auditions for the lead in the school play and ends up getting it, only to lose the part after she impulsively steals some chocolates.

Gertie wants to be seen, in particular by her mother. She wants validation that she is worthy and that Rachel made a mistake by abandoning her. Gertie also wants to show Rachel that...