Personally, this is one of my favorite books, it was a great book in general, but also gives a only slightly over exaggerated view of high school life. Although there are a few aspects of high school life that are a tad bit more extreme than real life for MOST people, the tale is fairly accurate. Mrs. Anderson is an amazing author, after all, she writes most of her work from personal experience - she's a high school guidance counselor. Some people might think that this book is too mature for their children, but I think that just so long as the kid isn't sheltered or anything like that, and they aren't totally immature, they can handle it in their early teens - in fact, I personally think that that's when it'll have the most potent effect on them. If you're not convinced, read it before handing it to them, it really varies with the family.