About This Book
Reach for this book when your preteen is starting to prioritize the approval of a charismatic new friend over their own internal compass. Twelve year old Ellie is swept up in a summer romance with Tommy, a boy whose troubled background and rebellious streak lead them into increasingly risky territory. It is a nuanced exploration of the pressure to be loyal to a first crush even when their behavior feels wrong. Parents will appreciate how the story handles the tension between parental protection and a child's desire for independence. It provides a safe space to discuss integrity, the weight of secrets, and how to reclaim your voice when a relationship becomes manipulative. Best for ages 10 to 14, this book serves as a realistic mirror for the middle school transition into more complex social dynamics.
