That's What Friends Do by Cathleen Barnhart
Published by HarperCollins on January 28, 2020
ISBN: 0062888935
Pages: 352
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Sammie and David have been best friends forever, but when newcomer, Luke, joins their trio, things get uncomfortable. Luke’s comments and behavior make Sammie uncomfortable, but she struggles to speak up for herself. David simply sees how easily, and seemingly successfully, Luke flirts with Sammie, and he doesn’t like the competition. When David’s attempt to show Sammie how he really feels goes horribly wrong, things get even more complicated.

This story is told from alternating points of view, between Sammie and David, and it touches on so many important topics — bullying, consent, rumors, peer pressure, masculinity, and so much more. It is an important and powerful book for all young readers. This book does a really good job of showing how specific actions differently impact the different people involved. It is, at times, uncomfortable to read, but it’s a discomfort that is important to experience. Recommended for 4th-8th grade readers, give this book to fans of Erin Entrada Kelly and Rebecca Stead. A recommended purchase.

Reviewed by Jessie Trafton, Skidompha Library, Damariscotta, ME