What was main goal in the book Rules by Cynthia Lord?

In the novel "Rules" by Cynthia Lord, the main goal is for the protagonist, Catherine, to find her voice and develop a sense of independence and self-acceptance. Throughout the story, Catherine struggles with social anxiety and perfectionism, which hinder her ability to express herself and connect with others. Her desire to please everyone and follow the rules leads to feelings of isolation and frustration.

As the story progresses, Catherine gradually begins to break free from these constraints. She learns to let go of her inhibitions, take risks, and embrace her individuality. By challenging herself and stepping outside her comfort zone, she discovers the power of self-expression and finds the courage to speak up and advocate for herself and her beliefs.

The main goal of the book, therefore, is to show Catherine's journey of personal growth and self-discovery as she overcomes her fears, learns to embrace her quirks and imperfections, and ultimately finds the strength to stand up for what she believes in.