About This Book
Reach for this book when your teen feels stuck in a rut, comparing their ordinary life to the curated, high-drama world they see online or in popular peers. It is perfect for the child who feels like their 'real life' hasn't started yet and needs encouragement to find agency in their current circumstances. The story follows Irene, a teenager fired from her mom's salon and stuck babysitting, who becomes fascinated by a glamorous, older lifeguard named Starla. Through this friendship, Irene navigates themes of self-worth, the pitfalls of idolizing others, and the realization that she can shape her own future. It is a lighthearted but meaningful read for middle schoolers navigating social hierarchies and the transition to independence.
