Bad Girls

Bad Girls cover
Good Books rating 4.23

Technical:
  • ID: 1712
  • Added: 2025-10-08
  • Updated: 2025-10-08
  • ISBN: 9781407046341
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 2008-09-04
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 3
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Mandy has been bullied at school for as long as she can remember, leaving her feeling lonely and isolated. Her life takes a turn when she meets Tanya, a fun and glamorous girl who wants Mandy as her friend. Mandy is thrilled, but her mother is concerned, believing Tanya is a bad influence. Despite the occasional trouble they get into, Mandy feels protected by Tanya's ability to get them out of any situation. This story by bestselling author Jacqueline Wilson explores themes of friendship, self-confidence, and standing up for oneself. It's a perfect read to start conversations with younger readers about bullying and how our actions affect others. Wilson's unique ability to tackle emotional issues with lightness and humor makes this a compelling and heartwarming read. Bad Girls is not just a story about friendship; it's a journey of self-discovery and resilience. Mandy's relationship with Tanya challenges her to grow and assert herself, while also navigating the complexities of peer pressure and parental concerns. The narrative beautifully balances humor and emotional depth, making it accessible and engaging for young readers. It's a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or struggled with the pressures of fitting in.

Reviews
BookTrust · 2025-10-08
relatable 4.50

The book effectively captures the insecurities and concerns that many young readers can relate to, making it a compelling read.

The reviewer from BookTrust praises 'Bad Girls' for its ability to depict the insecurities and concerns that many young readers face. The narrative is relatable and engaging, making it a book that young audiences can connect with on a personal level. The reviewer finds the depiction of these emotions and issues to be both accurate and impactful, highlighting the book's strength in addressing these topics.


Quick quotes

    Bad Girls effortlessly depicts the sort of insecurities and concerns to which many young readers will surely relate.

    The narrative is both engaging and relatable, making it a compelling read for young audiences.

    It's a book that young readers will find both comforting and thought-provoking.

Medium · Miracle · 2023-03-03
impactful 4.00

The book tackles serious themes like suicide and drug abuse through the perspective of a child, offering a unique and impactful narrative.

Miracle's review highlights how Jacqueline Wilson's 'Bad Girls' delves into heavy topics such as suicide, drug abuse, and societal issues, all seen through the eyes of a young protagonist. This approach makes the themes more relatable and poignant for young readers. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to address these complex issues in a way that resonates with its audience, making it a significant read.


Quick quotes

    In Bad Girls, Jacqueline Wilson presents serious themes such as suicide, drug abuse, abandonment and a myriad of societal ills from the lens of a kid.

    The book tackles these issues with a sensitivity that is both compelling and thought-provoking.

    It's a powerful narrative that doesn't shy away from the harsh realities faced by many young individuals.

The Guardian · 2013-05-09
heartwarming 4.20

The story is heartwarming and centers around the bad influence of Tanya, who befriends Mandy White, the star of the book.

The Guardian's review describes 'Bad Girls' as a heartwarming story that revolves around the complex relationship between Tanya and Mandy White. The reviewer appreciates the depth of Tanya's character and the emotional journey that the book takes its readers on. The narrative is engaging and touching, making it a memorable read for young audiences. The reviewer finds the exploration of friendship and influence to be particularly well-executed.


Quick quotes

    Bad Girls is a heart melting book based on the bad influence of a girl named Tanya who makes friends with Mandy White, the star of bad girls.

    The story is engaging and touches on the complexities of friendship and influence.

    It's a narrative that will stay with young readers long after they've finished the book.

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