56 pages • 1 hour read
320
Novel • Fiction
2010s
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
630L
Maybe He Just Likes You by Barbara Dee follows 12-year-old Mila, who endures escalating unwanted attention from a basketball team, while her friends fail to support her; through karate and a supportive teacher, Mila eventually confronts the boys and the school addresses boundaries and consent. The book depicts sexual harassment and bullying.
Emotional
Challenging
Contemplative
Heartwarming
Inspirational
8,277 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Barbara Dee's Maybe He Just Likes You tackles the serious issue of harassment in middle school with sensitivity and realism. Critics praise the book for its authentic depiction of a young girl's struggle and its valuable educational message. However, some suggest the narrative occasionally borders on being overly didactic. Overall, it is a compelling and important read for young audiences.
Teen readers who appreciated the social realism and school dynamics in Blubber by Judy Blume or the coming-of-age challenges in Wonder by R.J. Palacio will find Maybe He Just Likes You by Barbara Dee compelling. Ideal for those exploring themes of consent, bullying, and self-empowerment in middle school settings.
8,277 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel • Fiction
2010s
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
630L
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