"Empress of the World" by Sara Ryan

Excerpt:

JUNE 14, 4 PM, PRUCHER HALL AUDITORIUM
I am sitting cross-legged on an uncomfortable seat, waiting for a speech to start. It has been approximately forty-five minutes since Mom and Dad left me here. I am going to be here for the whole summer, and I do not know a single person. more?
Main Characters:
Nicola Lancaster (Nic): Named after Nicola Tesla. Taking Archaeology. Plays viola, does theater tech, draws. Gets along with her parents, but doesn’t admit it in public.
Battle Hall Davies: Named after the building where her parents met. Owner of two beloved corgis:Dante and Beatrice. Taking World History, for no particular reason. Studies dance. Used to do puppet shows.
Katrina Lansdale: Not named after anyone, her mom just liked the name. Taking Computer Science, because why would you not? Owner of a unique and extensive wardrobe. Smoker, trying to quit. Really.
Isaac Shawn: “People are going to be named after me.” Taking Political Science, so that he can impersonate Madeline Albright in debates. Red Cross certified in First Aid.
Kevin Kung: Named after his dad (boring). Taking Music Theory. Composer. In a band called Chaos Harbor. Works out a lot. Always carries sunscreen.
Setting:
Prucher Hall and its surrounding area, where the Siegel Institute is hosted every year. Distinguishing features include a courtyard with climbable trees; a small forest, suitable for short hikes and after-curfew expeditions; and a river, to walk along while brooding.