About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle-schooler is struggling with the messy social dynamics of early dating, the fear of hurting a friend's feelings, or the pressure to be 'nice' at the expense of their own truth. It is a perfect choice for children who feel overwhelmed by the 'he-said, she-said' drama of the school hallway and need to see their internal anxieties reflected with humor and empathy. Nikki Maxwell finds herself in a classic adolescent bind: she is trying to navigate a blossoming romance with Brandon while managing the unexpected attention of a new student. Through the relatable lens of a doodle-filled diary, the story explores themes of social loyalty, the paralyzing nature of embarrassment, and the importance of clear communication. It provides a safe, exaggerated space for 9 to 13-year-olds to process their own 'crush catastrophes' while realizing that social blunders are a normal, survivable part of growing up.
