This book captures the frantic intensity of pre-teen social circles through authentic sibling dialogue and the stressful secrecy of a forbidden crush. The conversational tone makes high stakes middle school dilemmas feel urgent and deeply personal. Books in this family share a focus on navigated loyalty, secret keeping, and the complex reality of evolving friendships.
A parent would reach for this book when their pre-teen is beginning to navigate the complicated social hierarchies of middle school and the first stirrings of romantic interest. It specifically addresses the 'friendship first' dilemma that occurs when a child feels a crush on someone their best friend is already dating or interested in. The story follows Riley and Chloe Carlson as they balance school, family, and the social minefields of teenage life. While the tone is light and humorous, it provides a safe space to discuss loyalty, the ethics of 'calling dibs' on a crush, and the guilt that comes with secret feelings. It is an ideal choice for parents looking to normalize the confusing emotions of early adolescence without the content becoming too mature or heavy.
