Stacey and the Bad Girls

Reach for this book when your child is starting to prioritize the opinions of a 'cool' new group of friends over their long-standing values or existing relationships. In this installment of the Baby-Sitters Club, Stacey McGill finds herself charmed by a group of older girls who push the boundaries of rules and kindness, leading Stacey to neglect her responsibilities and her true friends. It is a classic exploration of peer pressure, the desire for social status, and the discomfort of realizing that being popular is not the same as being liked for who you are. Parents will appreciate how it models the difficult process of admitting a mistake and repairing damaged trust. It is a gentle but firm look at integrity, making it ideal for middle schoolers navigating the complex social hierarchies of late elementary and early junior high.