Like Ability: The Truth About Popularity

Gr 7-9–This work combines real life situations, self-reflective exercises, and practical wisdom about a subject many teens have on their minds: popularity. The authors recognize the importance to teens of being popular, but split the concept further into subcategories of status and likability, which serve as two separate branches on the tree of popularity. This reminds readers that status and likability are not the same yet can be intertwined. Complicated relationships and social media influences are key components that are included in the book. The book gives practical solutions without sounding clichéd, such as avoiding the temptation to seek status. This is a refreshing take on a timeless subject. Most teens will be encouraged and reassured by the discussions of likability versus status. Graphic organizers allow readers to think through or note important points. This title could be used by an individual teen or as part of group work dealing with social and emotional learning.