
A parent might reach for this book when their teen is navigating the intense, often painful feelings of jealousy and comparison within a close friendship. This story follows a high school cheerleading squad at a summer camp, where best friends Mary Ellen and Nancy find their bond tested by rivalry, romantic interests, and a series of unsettling accidents. It delves into themes of self-confidence, loyalty, and the struggle to belong. Appropriate for early to mid-teens, this book from the 80s offers a classic take on teen social dynamics, providing a great starting point for conversations about handling envy and communicating honestly with friends.
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Sign in to write a reviewIncludes innocent crushes, dating, and some kissing.
The book deals with peril through a series of accidents that are revealed to be intentional acts of sabotage. The approach is direct but not graphic, focusing more on the suspense and emotional fallout than on physical injury. The resolution is hopeful, with the perpetrator identified and the core friendships repaired. The story is entirely secular.
A 13 to 15-year-old who is deeply invested in their friend group but is starting to feel the sting of comparison. This reader might be involved in a competitive team sport or activity and is struggling to balance their own ambition with being a supportive friend. They are likely drawn to stories about friendship drama with a touch of mystery.
No specific prep is required; the book can be read cold. The themes, while emotionally potent for teens, are presented in a very accessible 1980s YA style. A parent might want to be prepared to discuss the power of jealousy and the importance of open communication in friendships, as these are the central conflicts. A parent notices their child making self-deprecating comments or expressing jealousy after spending time with friends (e.g., "She's better at everything," or "No one likes me as much as they like her."). The parent might observe their child withdrawing from a previously loved activity due to social pressure or insecurity.
A younger reader (12-13) will likely be captivated by the plot: the cheerleading routines, the summer camp setting, and the whodunnit mystery of the accidents. An older reader (14-16) is more likely to connect with the nuanced emotional struggles, recognizing the authenticity of Mary Ellen's internal conflict and the complex dynamics of teenage female friendships.
Compared to contemporary YA, this book is unique for its nostalgic, lower-stakes approach to teen drama. It blends a classic story of friendship and jealousy with a light mystery plot, offering a compelling narrative without the heavier, more traumatic themes common in modern realistic fiction. Its 80s charm provides a window into a different era of teendom.
The Tarenton High cheerleading squad heads to a competitive summer camp. Mary Ellen, a core member, struggles with deep-seated jealousy towards her talented and popular best friend, Nancy. Her insecurity is amplified by the high-pressure environment and budding romances. The tension escalates when a series of mysterious and dangerous accidents begins to plague the squad, always seeming to target Nancy. The girls must uncover who is behind the attacks while navigating their own fractured friendships and fears.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.