The Invasion of the Boy Snatchers: A Clique Novel
Common Sense Note
Parents should know that this book features lots of labels, including constant references to high-end fashion, singers, technology, and even junk food. Even though the main characters are only 12, the book glamorizes style, romance, and popularity. The Pretty Committee is definitely not about girl power: one character has a weight obsession, and the friends don't seem that concerned when one of the members has a fever-induced hallucination.
Families who read this book could talk about the amount of products mentioned here. Have you heard of the brands? Is it realistic that a 12-year-old would have so much stuff? What sort of impact does all this label-dropping have on readers? Do you envy these girls?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Kate Pavao
Not only does this book have bad messages, but it isn't even well written, limiting its appeal even as a guilty pleasure.
The author does occasionally capture middle school behavior well: Even these sophisticated girls worry about first kisses, send each other constant text messages, and tell lame jokes. One of the popular boys is even known for dropping his pants and doing his "famous butt-wiggle." But these moments are wedged between extravagant parties, mean talk, and elaborate revenge plots.
Overall, targeting a book that's mostly about clothes, boys, popularity, and power to tween girls just seems wrong, especially since there are no real lessons learned at the end.
From The Book
Massie ran her fingers over the emerald green eyes in her cat brooch, wondering how to keep Nina away from the guys. But when she heard Derrington, Cam, and Chris whispering about "Alicia's cousin's epic cleavage," Massie realized the real problem would be keeping the guys away from Nina.
Plot Summary:
In this fourth installment in the Clique series, Alicia's Spanish cousin transfers for a semester to their private girls' school.
The 13-year-old appears to win over the boys instantly with her sexy clothes and talk. Massie schemes to get control -- of the guys and of her clique, too.
Related Books:
Better Books about Girl Cliques:
The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Anne Brashares
Walking Naked by Alyssa Brugman
Rhymes with Witches by Lauren Myracle
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Sexual ContentSexily clad students, talk about kissing (including a wager about who will get kissed first), jokes about virginity. |
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Social BehaviorThe friends in this clique aren't as concerned about one another's feelings as they are about popularity and power. They ultimately pull a humiliating prank on a new student without any consequeces or lesson learned. |
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CommercialismLots of products mentioned, from designer labels to junk food: YSL, Jimmy Choo, Starbucks, Diet Coke. |
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