A parent might reach for this book when their child is distressed by a shifting friendship, especially when a new person creates a competitive 'friendship triangle'. For kids grappling with the intense sting of jealousy, comparison, and the fear of being replaced, this story acts as both a mirror and a guide. It follows two best friends, Julia and Andre, whose inseparable bond is tested when a glamorous new girl, Laurie, arrives. What follows is a painfully funny and deeply relatable rivalry to see who Laurie will like best. This book is perfect for ages 8 to 12 as it masterfully captures the complex, messy, and sometimes illogical feelings of childhood social dynamics, validating a child's experience while offering a hopeful, and humorous, perspective.
The protagonists lie and behave unkindly out of jealousy and a desire to impress a new friend.
Sensitive Topics
The book's core deals directly with the intense emotional pain of social jealousy, exclusion, and low self-worth. The approach is not metaphorical; it is a realistic, moment-by-moment depiction of the girls' feelings. The resolution is both realistic and hopeful: the girls don't magically solve everything, but they recognize the toxicity of the situation and reaffirm their own valuable, albeit imperfect, friendship. The context is entirely secular.
Ideal Reader
This is for the 9-11 year old who is currently in the throes of a friendship triangle. They feel their best friend is slipping away to someone new and 'cooler'. This reader is consumed by feelings of jealousy and inadequacy, and feels pressure to perform or compete to maintain their social standing.
Parent Prep
No specific content prep is needed. The book can be read cold. However, parents should be prepared for conversations about manipulative behavior (Laurie isn't always kind) and the ways insecurity can make us act in ways we later regret. It’s a great jumping-off point to discuss what makes a healthy, supportive friendship. A parent overhears their child saying, "She likes Maya more than me now," or sees their child in tears after feeling excluded by their best friend and a new acquaintance. The trigger is witnessing the acute pain of feeling replaced.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will latch onto the funny, competitive antics and the clear unfairness of the situation. They will relate to the big feelings of being left out. An older reader (10-12) will better appreciate the satirical humor, the psychological nuance of Laurie's subtle manipulations, and the theme of finding self-worth outside of others' approval.
What Makes It Special
While many books cover friendship struggles, Robin Klein's sharp, satirical wit is the key differentiator. This book excels at capturing the internal monologue of a jealous child with cringe-worthy accuracy. It doesn't just show the behavior, it explores the frantic, insecure, and often ridiculous thoughts behind it, which is incredibly validating for a child experiencing those same feelings.
Read plot summary
Inseparable best friends Julia and Andre find their world thrown into chaos with the arrival of Laurie, a charismatic and worldly new girl at school. Immediately, a fierce rivalry develops as both girls vie for Laurie's exclusive affection. They engage in a series of escalating, often humorous, one-upmanships, from bragging about their families to planning elaborate parties. The competition strains their original friendship to the breaking point, forcing them to confront their intense jealousy and insecurities before they can find their way back to each other.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Julia and Andre do many things to try and impress Laurie, like making up stories about their families. Why do you think they felt the need to compete so fiercely for her attention?
2
Laurie often made Julia and Andre feel like they had to earn her friendship. What are some signs of a healthy friendship, versus one that makes you feel anxious or insecure?
3
At different points, both Julia and Andre feel alone and replaced. Have you ever felt that way? What did the characters do that made things worse, and what eventually helped them feel better?
4
Was Laurie a 'mean girl,' or was she just a person who liked attention? Can someone be a fun friend and also a friend who makes you feel bad sometimes? How do you know the difference?
5
By the end, Julia and Andre find their way back to each other. How do you think their friendship will be different after their experience with Laurie?
