"Best Friends for Never" by Lisi Harrison is an engaging and enjoyable novel that delves into the complexities of teenage friendships. The story revolves around Massie and Claire, two best friends whose bond is tested when a new girl named Kristen enters their lives. Massie, the popular and self-assured girl, feels threatened by Kristen and begins excluding Claire from their exclusive group. As tensions rise between the three girls, they must navigate the challenges of loyalty, betrayal, and self-discovery.
Harrison masterfully captures the essence of teenage friendships, portraying the highs and lows that come with them. She explores the insecurities and intricate social dynamics that often exist among teenage girls, making the characters feel realistic and relatable. Each girl has her own strengths and flaws, and throughout the book, we witness their growth and development.
The pacing of the story is well-balanced, striking the perfect blend between lighter moments and more serious conflicts. Harrison's writing style is witty and engaging, effortlessly pulling readers into the story. The incorporation of fashion and pop culture references adds a modern touch to the narrative.
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What truly sets "Best Friends for Never" apart is its exploration of the complexities of friendship. Through the experiences of Massie, Claire, and Kristen, the novel examines themes of jealousy, competition, and the significance of honesty. It shines a light on the challenges of navigating friendships and the difficult choices that sometimes need to be made.
Overall, "Best Friends for Never" is an entertaining and thought-provoking read that will resonate with teenage readers. It serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy and understanding in friendships, while also showcasing the growth and resilience that can stem from facing challenges head-on. Harrison has created a compelling story that stays with readers long after they finish the book.
What are readers saying?
"Best Friends for Never" by Lisi Harrison has received a variety of reviews from readers. The story follows two best friends, Massie and Claire, as they face challenges when they both aspire to be the alpha of their exclusive middle school clique.
Reviewers had different opinions about the book. Some praised Harrison's engaging and easy-to-read writing style. They enjoyed the fast-paced plot and found the characters relatable and well-developed. These readers appreciated the underlying themes of friendship and loyalty in the story.
On the other hand, some reviewers were disappointed with the shallow and materialistic nature of the characters. They felt that the book placed too much emphasis on material possessions and social status, which they found unappealing. Additionally, critics found the behavior and attitudes of the main characters to be unrealistic and immature.
Many readers noted that "Best Friends for Never" is targeted towards a young adult audience, specifically pre-teen girls. Some reviewers appreciated the light-hearted and drama-filled storyline, believing it would resonate well with the intended demographic. They felt that the book addressed relevant issues such as navigating friendships and dealing with social hierarchies.
However, a few reviewers found the book to be predictable and lacking depth. They felt that the plot was cliché and the characters fell into common stereotypes. These readers were looking for a more substantial and thought-provoking read, which they didn't find in "Best Friends for Never."
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