Starstruck

Reach for this book if your teen is struggling with the pressures of social comparison, the performance of public identity, or the competitive drive to succeed at any cost. Set against the glamorous but cutthroat backdrop of 1930s Hollywood, the story follows three ambitious girls, Margo, Gabby, and Margaret, as they navigate the studio system. It explores the high stakes of fame and the sacrifices required to maintain a curated image. While it is an entertaining historical drama, it offers a sophisticated look at how ambition can strain friendships and how young people define their worth in a world obsessed with status. It is best suited for older teens due to its mature themes of romance and industry ethics. Parents can use this to discuss the difference between one's public persona and true self.