Beautifully Illustrated. A Newbery Honor Book, An ALA Notable Book and A New York Times Outstanding Book of the Year. No one gets the better of Beth Lambert. Except, maybe, Philip Hall..Philip Hall is the cutest, smartest boy in the sixth grade, and Beth Lambert loves him. the fact that he beats her in classwork, sports, and just about everything else doesn't particularly bother Beth at first. then she realizes that Philip might be best in everything because she's letting him beat her. and coming out on top is just too natural a thing for Beth to hold back for very long! I reckon Philip Hall can't help liking spunky, expansive Beth...and you'll like her, too.