These Boots Are Made for Stalking

This installment of The Clique series follows five eighth-grade girls, Massie, Alicia, Kristen, Dylan, and Claire, as they grapple with the complexities of middle school social life. The girls are obsessed with crushes, particularly on ninth-grade boys, leading to jealousy, competition, and a reevaluation of their friendships. Themes of social status, fitting in, and the fear of being left behind are explored through their individual storylines. Parents should be aware of the focus on dating, social maneuvering, and some mild manipulative behavior, like "stalking" a crush, which can open conversations about healthy relationships and social dynamics.

Massie Block: Now that Massie's in luh-v with a freshman at ADD, it's time for the Pretty Committe to upgrade--literally. Armed with glossy hair, juicy gossip, and enough confidence to impress the ninth grade set, Massie can walk the walk. But when she catches Landon hanging out with a bird-tattooed mystery girl, will she have to stalk the hawk? Alicia Rivera: Thought she and Josh Hotz were a perfect fit... until she found out they wear the same clothing size. Ehma-unacceptable! Maybe she should try on a new crush in size nine--ninth grade, that is. Kristen Gregory: Is booooored of Dempsey's constant soccer talk. When a high school hawtie makes a play for her attention, she may need to drop-kick her old crush to the curb... Dylan Marvil: Loves lip-kissing Derrington. But when he loses a bet and has to wear his clothes backwards, all bets on another smooch session are off. Claire Lyons: Is clinging to eighth grade like ugly on a Kmart jumper. Why grow up before you have to? But if she refuses to trade Cam in for a ninth-grade crush, will her friends outgrow her?