As Allie Kimball starts sixth grade, she discovers that middle school is a very different world, with glommers -- those girls who never go anywhere alone, clinging to their groups, and norks -- a combination of a nerd and a dork. She keeps a journal of creative words that help define her world, With the help of her soccer team, a few new friends, and some shocking surprises from old friends, Allie soon discovers that she does have the strength to be herself.