Ginny wears hand-me-down gingham and these days, it’s almost enough to earn her credit with the retro kids, but she hasn’t explored enough to understand that. She expects the same taunts here as she got in elementary and junior high. She’s learned to shut them out so thoroughly that she doesn’t notice their absence.

If anyone notices Ginny at all it’s as a submarine, ducking through the halls, silent in a world of thunder; but inside she’s not frightened. She’s oblivious to everything but the warm beat of her faith. Inside she is praying, praying to Saint Britney Jean.