Common Sense Media Review
By Terreece Clarke
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
More spunk and "rules" from Cabot's popular series.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 2 parent reviews
Based on 11 kid reviews
Kids say this book is a beloved read among young girls, often praised for its humor and engaging storylines, although some reviews mention concerns about the content being slightly scary or inappropriate. Many readers found it to be captivating and recommended it, noting that it contains memorable lessons and entertaining elements, making it enjoyable for a wide age range.
- engaging storyline
- humorous content
- scary elements
- recommended for girls
- captivating read
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
Allie and her family have just moved into a new home and she's nervous about starting her new school. It turns out she had reason to be nervous when she encounters Rosemary, a big bully with her sights set on making Allie's life miserable. Allie tries to figure out how to deal with Rosemary, make new friends, get over her little brother's embarrassing behavior, and wait patiently for her kitten to be born. Will she be able to do it, and what rules will she make up along the way?
Is It Any Good?
The second book in Meg Cabot's Allie Finkle series is light and fun. The title character has some cool attributes -- she knows how to stand up for herself and is considerate of her friends. But one thing that distracts from the story is the dialog. It feels a little too simple, too little girlish -- almost like an adult speaking how they think a 9-year-old would speak.What Cabot does well is exploring interpersonal dynamics from a kid's perspective. It's great to see Allie trying to work through both family issues and conflicts with friends. Readers will identify with Allie's struggle of wanting to belong and be accepted while also trying to remain true to herself and the things she values, like being nice to others. Allie's a born leader and it's interesting to watch where she leads others.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how to work through disagreements with family and friends. How did Allie's mom deal with her meddling mother-in-law?
How does this second book in the series compare with the first? Which do you like better?
Who provided the best advice for Allie's situation with Rosemary? How do you think you would have handled it?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Friendship
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Friendship
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Scholastic Press
- Publication date : August 5, 2008
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 9 - 12
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated : December 3, 2025
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