Common Sense Media Review
By Kya Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Artsy tween has sweet adventures in fun summer camp tale.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 8+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In REALLY RUBIE, Rubie Fox has just finished fifth grade and is excited about going to summer camp with her best friend, Riley. They've created a "TUCE Truce" (The Ultimate Camp Experience) and are going to have the best summer of their lives. That is, until Riley can no longer go and Rubie finds herself all alone in a cabin filled with strangers and her stuffed animal, Jim the Duck. As crushes and new friends start to enter the mix, Rubie is torn between having new experiences and being tethered to the promises she made Riley. How will Rubie navigate creating new memories when her best friend isn't a part of them?
Is It Any Good?
A lighthearted read, this book captures the ups and downs of friendship with precision and humor. Really Rubie highlights the changes that accompany growing up in a fresh and fun way. Author Maddie Frost's portrayal of Rubie's journey into independence is full of wit and realism. With lively black-and-white line drawings that reflect Rubie's personality and self-discovery, getting to peek into this relatable character's diary is just plain fun.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about communication in Really Rubie. When Rubie breaks her promises to best friend Riley, she apologizes but also expresses her desire to experience new things. Share about a time you were brave enough to share your true feelings with someone. What was the result?
Rubie is introduced to horseback riding and decides to learn how to ride a horse before camp ends. When have you been curious about a new activity, and what did you learn or accomplish?
Before the dance, Rubie and her friends team up to create a makeshift salon to get ready for the big event. Have you and your friends ever worked together to achieve a shared goal? How was your experience?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Maddie Frost
- Genre : Friendship
- Topics : Adventures , Family Stories ( Single Parents ) , Friendship , School ( Middle School )
- Character Strengths : Communication , Courage , Curiosity , Empathy , Perseverance , Teamwork
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Aladdin
- Publication date : June 2, 2026
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 240
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : June 14, 2026
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