Quest For PraxZhan — Maggie Brooks

Jennifer is plagued by a bully and his side-kicks, can't comprehend algebra and is struggling with a recent family tragedy. When she meets a strange, pale boy with his own dark secrets, she is drawn to him and joins him in a race through, and against time, as she find a way to help him and his people, who are literally refugees from out of this world. Along the way, she learns she has more courage and brains than she thought and comes to an acceptance of who she is and who she can be.An usual and compelling story for ages 9-13, encompassing adventure, aliens and time travel, as well as bullying, loss, grief and courage.