Every Month Is a New Year

A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is struggling to find their footing in a high-pressure social environment or is feeling the weight of peer scrutiny. While the setting is one of extreme privilege, the core of the story explores the painful reality of how gossip and shifting loyalties can impact self-esteem. It follows the tumultuous friendship of Blair and Serena as they navigate the upper echelons of Manhattan private school life, dealing with themes of jealousy, betrayal, and the desperate need to belong. This series is best suited for older teens (14-18) due to its mature themes, offering a window into the complexities of female friendship and the consequences of public image. Parents might choose it as a way to discuss the difference between true friendship and social status.