You're No Friend of Mine

A parent should reach for this book when their teenager is experiencing a volatile friendship breakup or a period of intense social friction within a close-knit group. Set in the boarding school of Canby Hall, the story explores the breakdown of the bond between roommates Dana and Shelley, who find themselves constantly at odds. While they navigate hurt feelings and misunderstandings, their friend Faith is simultaneously grappling with significant personal decisions, highlighting how social drama can sometimes blind us to the needs of those we care about. This is an excellent choice for navigating the specific pain of growing apart from someone you once shared everything with. It normalizes the anger and frustration that come with social shifts while emphasizing that forgiveness and open communication are the only ways forward. It is developmentally appropriate for middle and high schoolers who are learning to balance individual identity with group loyalty.