About This Book
Reach for this book when your middle schooler feels like an invisible observer in their own social life, or when they are struggling to navigate the pressure to be 'cool' at the expense of their heritage. It follows Mickey, a quiet Korean American girl who feels caught between the expectations of her traditional mother and the magnetic, sometimes superficial world of the popular girls at school. As she navigates a complicated friendship with the beautiful and bold Sun Hee, Mickey must learn to distinguish between true connection and the desire for social status. This story speaks deeply to the emotional needs of preteens who are wrestling with self-confidence and cultural identity. It provides a realistic look at the 'mean girl' dynamics and the subtle ways children can lose themselves while trying to fit in. Parents will appreciate how the book validates the difficulty of standing up for oneself while offering a hopeful path toward finding a voice that is authentic and strong. It is perfectly suited for ages 8 to 12.
