Fortune Falls by Jenny Goebel

In Fortune Falls, by age twelve, children are categorized as "lucky" or "unlucky" via luck tests at the school.  As Sadie's twelve birthday is quickly approaching, she knows Fate has selected her as "unlucky" which means attending school away from her family and best friend Cooper.
Cooper, a loyal friend, assists Sadie to break her unlucky streak.  Whenever they attempt a plan, however, it seems to backfire.
Then a black cat (very unlucky) comes into Sadie's life and she begins to perceive her life (and others) a bit differently.
Great word choice.
I was a bit sad while reading this book as Sadie encounters misfortune after misfortune!!
*Borrowed from a teacher.