
Reach for this book when your middle schooler is navigating the complex world of digital privacy, feeling the sting of public embarrassment, or questioning the fairness of authority figures. It is a vital resource for children who are starting to realize that the adults in charge do not always have the perfect solution to modern social problems like cyberbullying. The story follows Dominica, a creative student who discovers that her school's security cameras have been hacked to broadcast private moments on the internet. Through a blend of art and activism, Dominica and her friends reclaim their agency. The book explores themes of digital consent, the power of collective action, and the importance of finding a creative voice in the face of shame. It is a sophisticated but accessible look at how technology impacts our sense of safety and why standing up for others is just as important as standing up for yourself. It is perfect for ages 10 to 14, providing a roadmap for turning frustration into constructive change.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewCharacters use unsanctioned graffiti and minor hacking to achieve their goals.
The book deals directly with cyberbullying and the violation of digital privacy. The approach is realistic and secular, highlighting the very real anxiety of having one's private mistakes go viral. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, focusing on systemic change rather than just individual punishment.
A middle schooler who feels overlooked by adults or frustrated by arbitrary rules. It is perfect for the student who loves art, coding, or social justice and wants to see how those interests can be used to solve real-world problems.
Parents should be prepared to discuss the ethics of 'vigilante' art and civil disobedience. No specific scenes require previewing, but a cold read is fine as the book explains its concepts well. A parent might choose this after their child describes a situation where a teacher or administrator dismissed a bullying incident, or if their child is feeling anxious about their digital footprint.
Younger readers (10-11) will focus on the mystery of 'who did it' and the fun of the secret art projects. Older readers (13-14) will likely connect more deeply with the themes of privacy rights and the critique of institutional surveillance.
Unlike many bullying books that focus on individual 'mean girls,' this book examines the role of institutional surveillance and how systemic 'solutions' can often make problems worse for students.
Dominica is horrified to find that private moments captured by her school's security cameras are being posted online for everyone to mock. When the school administration fails to take the breach seriously and instead increases surveillance, Dominica and her friends take inspiration from the anonymous street artist Banksy. They use art and clever hacking of their own to expose the absurdity of the school's policies and catch the person responsible for the leaks.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.