
Reach for this book when your child is facing the awkward, sometimes painful reality of a first breakup or the realization that a childhood friend has changed into someone they no longer recognize. It is an ideal choice for pre-teens navigating the 'social growing pains' that come with maturing at different speeds than their peers. While visiting her old home in New York City, Stacey McGill is excited to see her ex-boyfriend, Robert, only to find that he has become arrogant and dismissive. The story centers on the emotional weight of letting go and the importance of self-worth when a relationship no longer feels right. It normalizes the sting of social rejection while empowering young readers to prioritize their own happiness and loyal friendships over a crush who treats them poorly.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a reviewThe book deals with chronic illness (diabetes) in a direct, matter-of-fact way that is common for the series. It also touches on social exclusion and the emotional toll of a 'bad' breakup. The approach is secular and the resolution is realistic: Stacey doesn't change Robert, she chooses to move on from him.
A middle-schooler who is experiencing their first 'crush gone wrong' or feeling left behind by a friend who has suddenly become 'too cool' for them.
Read cold. No specific scenes require prior vetting, though it provides a good opening to discuss what 'healthy' vs. 'unhealthy' peer behavior looks like. A parent might notice their child feeling insecure about a social gathering or crying over a text message or perceived slight from a peer.
Younger readers (8-9) will focus on the excitement of the NYC trip and the 'mean boy' aspect. Older readers (11-12) will resonate more deeply with the nuances of romantic disappointment and the difficulty of outgrowing someone you once loved.
Unlike many 'first love' stories that focus on the chase, this book focuses on the necessary 'ending.' it validates that it is okay to stop liking someone if they don't treat you with respect.
Stacey McGill returns to New York City for a visit, eager to reconnect with her former boyfriend, Robert Brewster. However, the reunion is far from a fairytale. Robert has joined a new crowd and adopted a 'cool' persona that is exclusionary and rude. Stacey must navigate her lingering feelings for him while realizing that his new behavior is a dealbreaker. Parallel to this, Stacey deals with her chronic illness (Type 1 diabetes) and the support of her BSC friends.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.