The Invasion of the Boy Snatchers: A Clique Novel

Book review by Kate Pavao, Common Sense Media
The Invasion of the Boy Snatchers: A Clique Novel Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 12+

Mean, label-loving girls are awful role models.

Lisi Harrison Friendship 2006
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Parents say

age 12+

Based on 16 reviews

Kids say

age 11+

Based on 125 reviews

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A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this book.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to 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.

Community Reviews

Natalie M.
Natalie M. Adult
May 30, 2018
age 12+

Invasion of the Pearl Clutchers

Anyone who is getting their panties in a bunch thinking that the book is encouraging kids to be materialistic clearly hasn't actually read the book. The clique series hyperbolizes the middle school experience, but many tweens will get the message loud and clear. And if y'all think your 13 year old has never so much as uttered the word "boob", you're only fooling yourself.

This title has:

Great messages
KateandWillsMom
KateandWillsMom Adult
March 18, 2014
age 16+

Boob Job, Wet T Shirt Contest, Major Cleavage, Slut: In Massies's Own Words ...

"It Sucks!" This book is disgusting and is not appropriate for tweens. I am shocked that the CSM review mentions consumerism and mean girl actions as the "what you need to know." In my opinion, those things pale in comparison to the awful sexual content of the book. By page 50 I had read enough. Unfortunately, my 10 year old 4th grader (who is pretty mature) read this at the suggestion of the local libarian before I did. I was shocked that the librarian would recommend this garbage for a 10 year old. I understand that 'kids today' know more than I did at this age, but I don't think my 10 year old needs to read about boob jobs, wet T shirt contests, major cleavage, and sluts.

This title has:

Too much sex
Too much consumerism
See all 16 parent reviews

What's the Story?

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.

Is It Any Good?

Not only does this book have negative messages, but it isn't even well-written, limiting its appeal even as a guilty pleasure. The author occasionally captures 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.

Targeting a book mostly about clothes, boys, popularity, and power to tween girls just seems wrong, especially because there are no real lessons learned.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the amount of products mentioned here. Have you heard of the brands?

  • What sort of impact does all this label-dropping have on readers?

  • Is it realistic that a 12-year-old would have so much stuff? Do you envy these girls?

Book Details

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