The Popularity Papers

Reach for this book when your child is starting to feel the social pressures of middle school or expresses worry about being liked by the right people. It is a brilliant resource for children who are trying to decode the mysterious rules of popularity while maintaining their own unique identities. The story follows two best friends, Lydia and Julie, who decide to study the popular kids as if they were a scientific project. This notebook-style narrative captures the humor, embarrassment, and intense loyalty of early adolescence. Parents will appreciate how it validates the awkwardness of growing up while gently mocking the superficiality of social hierarchies. It is a perfect choice for ages 8 to 12 because it uses a highly visual, diary-like format that makes complex social emotions feel manageable and funny. Ultimately, it reinforces that true friendship is far more valuable than being part of the in-crowd.