Diana G. Gallagher Libri

The story explores the tension between best friends Monica and Claudia as they support rival bands in a Battle of the Bands competition. Monica is rooting for Rory's band, while Claudia backs Brad's group, leading to a clash of loyalties. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, competition, and the challenges of balancing personal relationships with romantic interests, highlighting the struggle to maintain their bond amidst differing affections.

Claudia's long-standing crush on Brad Turino takes an unexpected turn when he seeks her help with homework. Just as she navigates this potential romance, the arrival of charming new boy Rusty Alvarez complicates matters by asking her out on her first date. Caught between her feelings for Brad and the excitement of a new relationship with Rusty, Claudia faces the challenge of choosing between her childhood crush and a fresh opportunity for love.

The story follows thirteen-year-old Claudia as she navigates the complexities of the American justice system after being wrongfully accused of theft while studying at a friend's house. Alongside her friend Monica, they face the challenge of proving their innocence in the face of circumstantial evidence and the judgment of their peers. This experience not only tests their friendship but also provides a critical commentary on fairness and the importance of justice.

Mr. J's Pet Haven is losing business to a pet superstore, so he decides to put on a pet show for the neighborhood, and recruits Kyle and Mia to help.

Claudia's aspirations to become a junior counselor at camp quickly unravel as she faces a series of mishaps upon arriving at her cabin. Her excitement turns into a challenge as she navigates unexpected obstacles, testing her resilience and determination. The story explores themes of ambition, friendship, and the realities of camp life, highlighting the growth and lessons learned through adversity.

Claudia faces a dilemma when her friend Adam expresses a desire to join the Whatever Club, as his disregard for the club's rules is causing tension among members. Struggling between loyalty to her friend and the happiness of the group, Claudia must navigate the challenges of friendship and the importance of rules, all while trying to maintain harmony within the club.

Claudia's seventh-grade class elections take a turn when her friend Peter decides to run for class president. Known for his intelligence and honesty, Peter aims for a clean campaign amidst a backdrop of deceit from his competitors. As Claudia supports him, the story explores themes of integrity and the challenges of standing out in a system where the same kids always win. Will Peter's principles be enough to break the cycle of broken promises and apathy?

This book features a variety of discussion questions and writing prompts designed to enhance understanding and engagement with the material. These tools encourage deeper reflection and critical thinking, making it an ideal resource for readers looking to explore themes and ideas more thoroughly. Perfect for book clubs or classroom settings, the prompts facilitate meaningful conversations and inspire creative responses.

The book features humorous first-person narratives that provide an authentic look into the life of a relatable 21st-century girl. Claudia shares her experiences with confidence and cleverness, infusing each story with a sense of hope and a touch of coolness. Through her honest storytelling, readers are invited to connect with her journey and the everyday situations she encounters.

Claudia's vacation takes an unexpected turn as she finds herself babysitting her younger cousins during a family reunion in Florida, leaving her unable to enjoy the festivities or spend time with her new friends. The story explores her feelings of frustration and disappointment, highlighting the challenges of balancing family responsibilities with personal desires.