Maybe He Just Likes You
Book • 2020
by Barbara Dee
A 2020 ALA Notable Children’s Book
“The novel’s all-too-familiar scenario offers a springboard for discussion among middle schoolers…Easily grasped scenarios and short chapters help make this timely #MeToo story accessible to a wide audience.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Realistic and heartbreaking.” —BCCB
Barbara Dee explores the subject of #MeToo for the middle grade audience in this heart-wrenching—and ultimately uplifting—novel about experiencing harassment and unwanted attention from classmates.
For seventh-grader Mila, it starts with some boys giving her an unwanted hug on the school blacktop. A few days later, at recess, one of the boys (and fellow trumpet player) Callum tells Mila it’s his birthday, and asks her for a “birthday hug.” He’s just being friendly, isn’t he? And how can she say no? But Callum’s hug lasts a few seconds too long, and feels…weird. According to her friend, Zara, Mila is being immature and overreacting. Doesn’t she know what flirting looks like?
But the boys don’t leave Mila alone. On the bus. In the halls. During band practice—the one place Mila could always escape.
It doesn’t feel like flirting—so what is it? Thanks to a chance meeting, Mila begins to find solace in a new place: karate class. Slowly, with the help of a fellow classmate, Mila learns how to stand her ground and how to respect others—and herself.
From the author of Everything I Know About You, Halfway Normal, and Star-Crossed comes this timely story of a middle school girl standing up and finding her voice.
Maybe He Just Likes You
Book • 2020
by Barbara Dee
A 2020 ALA Notable Children’s Book
“The novel’s all-too-familiar scenario offers a springboard for discussion among middle schoolers…Easily grasped scenarios and short chapters help make this timely #MeToo story accessible to a wide audience.” —Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“Realistic and heartbreaking.” —BCCB
Barbara Dee explores the subject of #MeToo for the middle grade audience in this heart-wrenching—and ultimately uplifting—novel about experiencing harassment and unwanted attention from classmates.
For seventh-grader Mila, it starts with some boys giving her an unwanted hug on the school blacktop. A few days later, at recess, one of the boys (and fellow trumpet player) Callum tells Mila it’s his birthday, and asks her for a “birthday hug.” He’s just being friendly, isn’t he? And how can she say no? But Callum’s hug lasts a few seconds too long, and feels…weird. According to her friend, Zara, Mila is being immature and overreacting. Doesn’t she know what flirting looks like?
But the boys don’t leave Mila alone. On the bus. In the halls. During band practice—the one place Mila could always escape.
It doesn’t feel like flirting—so what is it? Thanks to a chance meeting, Mila begins to find solace in a new place: karate class. Slowly, with the help of a fellow classmate, Mila learns how to stand her ground and how to respect others—and herself.
From the author of Everything I Know About You, Halfway Normal, and Star-Crossed comes this timely story of a middle school girl standing up and finding her voice.
Suggested Age
Every child is different — this is guidance, not a rule.
This story addresses complex social issues like unwanted attention and harassment. Middle schoolers are better equipped to process these themes and engage in related discussions.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
The story touches on unwanted physical attention, including hugs that last too long, which can be uncomfortable for a child. There are no explicit or overtly sexual scenes, but the themes of boundary crossing are present.
Violence & Gore
There is no depiction of violence or gore. The 'conflict' mentioned is primarily social and emotional, focusing on uncomfortable interactions rather than physical harm.
Profanity
While the available information does not explicitly mention profanity, it's common in middle grade fiction dealing with social issues for very mild language to appear. If any, it would likely be limited to terms like 'd*mn' or 'h*ll' used infrequently.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
the available information does not suggest any presence of alcohol, drugs, or smoking.
Frightening Scenes
The story deals with themes of harassment and unwanted attention, which can be emotionally intense and upsetting for younger readers. While not outright frightening, the situations can create feelings of unease and anxiety.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
This book is about a girl who learns to stand up for herself when some boys at school make her feel uncomfortable. She finds ways to feel safe and confident again.
Content Warnings
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
The story directly tackles the 'MeToo' movement for a younger audience, focusing on subtle but impactful instances of harassment and the emotional toll they take. It validates a child's feelings when they perceive something is wrong, even if others dismiss it.
What Kids Can Learn
Children can learn to recognize and articulate their feelings of discomfort, understand that their feelings are valid, and explore strategies for asserting their boundaries. The narrative also offers insight into how supportive friendships and activities can build confidence.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
Offers a relevant and accessible way to start conversations about sensitive topics like consent and boundaries with middle schoolers, presented in a narrative that is ultimately uplifting.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
The narrative emphasizes self-advocacy and the importance of trusting one's instincts when experiencing discomfort. It highlights how finding supportive environments and learning personal boundaries are crucial for well-being.
Positive Role Models
Mila demonstrates growth by learning to identify and address inappropriate behavior. Her journey, supported by new mentors and friends, showcases resilience and self-discovery.
Diverse Representations
The provided text does not explicitly detail diverse characters beyond the central protagonist. Representation beyond the core group is not evident in the information given.
Educational Value
Fosters social-emotional learning by providing a framework for discussing consent, boundaries, and the impact of unwanted actions. It encourages critical thinking about peer interactions and social dynamics.
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