About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the subtle, often painful hierarchies of middle school social life. It is specifically designed for the 'middle-of-the-pack' student who feels the intense pressure to be part of the popular 'in-crowd' and is tempted to sacrifice their own kindness or integrity to get there. The story follows Laura Koffman as she navigates the complex social ladder of her school, making a significant mistake by alienating a potential friend in hopes of joining an exclusive club. It explores the heavy weight of social ambition, the sting of exclusion, and the difficult process of making amends. It is an ideal choice for parents who want to normalize the messy feelings of jealousy and social anxiety while modeling how to recover from a lapse in character. Written for ages 8 to 12, it provides a realistic look at how social status functions and why true friendship is worth more than being a 'somebody.'
