Star Reporter

Reach for this book when your middle-schooler feels like an 'understudy' in their own life, struggling to find a talent that makes them stand out. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels average and is beginning to navigate the messy overlap of school friendships and social media privacy. Cassidy Bond is a relatable protagonist who tries to find her 'thing' by becoming a school reporter, only to face a crisis of trust when her private notes are leaked online. The story deals with self-confidence, the ethics of gossip, and the courage to stand up for one's beliefs, such as Cassidy's petition for girls to wear trousers at school. It is a humorous, lighthearted, yet grounded look at the 9 to 12 year old experience, offering a safe space to discuss digital footprints and true friendship.