What does independence mean to Julep? What does it mean to you?

This is a discussion prompt for Miss Independent by Trudi Strain Trueit. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

How do Julep and her mom learn to understand each other better?

This is a discussion prompt for Miss Independent by Trudi Strain Trueit. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

Have you ever wanted to do something your parents thought you weren't ready for? How did you talk about it?

This is a discussion prompt for Miss Independent by Trudi Strain Trueit. Use it to spark conversation with your child after reading.

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Miss Independent

Name: Miss Independent
ISBN: 9781428740648

by Trudi Strain Trueit

Eleven-year-old Julep O'Toole uses her creativity to prove to her mother that she is ready for more independence and responsibility.

About This Book

Eleven-year-old Julep O'Toole wants to convince her mom that she is old enough to wear makeup, have a cell phone, and choose her own clothes, but it takes a creative idea from the preteen to put mother and daughter on the same wave length.

Concepts

Self-Confidence & Identity Freedom & Independence Love & Family Resilience & Perseverance Empathy & Kindness Honesty & Integrity Growing Up Peer Pressure Sibling Rivalry Family & Siblings School Life

Wonderlit Review

Given the 9-page count for a chapter book, this is likely a very early, accessible chapter book, perhaps part of a series designed for emerging independent readers. It centers on Julep O'Toole, an eleven-year-old girl eager for more autonomy, specifically regarding personal choices like makeup, clothing, and owning a cell phone. The core conflict is her desire for independence versus her mother's perception of her readiness. The book resolves this through Julep's "creative idea," which ultimately fosters better understanding and communication between mother and daughter. The emotional arc is gentle and uplifting, starting with a common preteen frustration and moving towards a hopeful resolution of mutual respect. It handles the sensitive topic of growing up and parental boundaries in a direct, relatable way, without being overly prescriptive. This book is ideal for children aged 7-11 who are beginning to assert their independence or feel misunderstood by their parents. Parents might reach for this when their child starts asking for more privileges, or when they observe a growing tension around rules and personal choices. It can serve as a wonderful conversation starter about family expectations, personal responsibility, and finding ways to communicate effectively. The brevity and clear narrative make it particularly suitable for reluctant readers or those transitioning from picture books to chapter books. Its strength lies in normalizing these universal growing pains and offering a positive model for resolution.