Queen of the Sixth Grade

A parent would reach for this book when their child is experiencing a sudden shift in a close friendship, specifically if a best friend has turned into a 'queen bee' or a bully. It speaks to the painful realization that a person you admire can be controlling and unkind. Robin, the protagonist, finds herself ousted from a secret club she helped create when she dares to challenge the leader, Veronica. This story explores themes of social hierarchy, the courage to stand alone, and the importance of finding friends who value you for who you are. Geared toward the middle school transition, it normalizes the feelings of isolation and shame that come with being targeted by a peer group. Parents will appreciate how it models the difficult but necessary process of setting boundaries and moving on from toxic relationships.