Suzanne “Suzy or Zu” Swanson

Suzanne “Suzy or Zu” Swanson is the main character and narrator for the novel. She is a seventh grade student who is intrigued by science. While she was struggling with the typical stress of middle school, Suzy was also grieving the death of her friend, Franny. She regretted they way their friendship had ended. Suzy was not a typical middle school student. Instead of being obsessed with boys and makeup like the popular girls in school, Suzy was interested in science and knowledge. Her friend, Franny, however had joined the popular girls when they began middle school and left Suzy behind.

Suzy made friends with Franny when they met each other as 5-year-olds in a swimming class. Suzy had been impressed with Franny when she first saw the girl swim underwater across the pool at their first lesson. They had been best friends since...