About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with self-confidence or feels like a target for playground pranks and bullying. While it is a classic horror story, it speaks deeply to the desire for a quick fix for one's insecurities. Carly Beth is a relatable protagonist who is tired of being the girl who is scared of everything, and her journey explores the dangerous temptation of using aggression to hide vulnerability. As the story progresses, the mask she wears begins to change her personality, making her cruel and angry. The book serves as a metaphorical warning about the masks we wear to fit in or protect ourselves. It is perfectly suited for middle-grade readers who enjoy a thrill but are also navigating the complex social hierarchies of late elementary and middle school. Ultimately, it emphasizes that true power comes from within and that kindness is the only way to truly conquer fear.
