Clique
by L Harrison
Fitzgerald Books 2004
Easy read — content targets 6th grade and up
Reading level 4.7 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 11+
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Genre
Themes
- friendship
- popularity and social hierarchy
- bullying and peer pressure
- identity and belonging
- materialism and status
- empathy and personal growth
About this book
In this sharp, funny look at middle school cliques, new girl Claire Lyons lands in a world of designer labels and unspoken rules ruled by queen bee Massie Block. As Claire tries to find her place at an elite private school, she navigates shifting friendships, status games, and the pressure to fit in. The fast-paced story, pop-culture references, and witty dialogue make it a page-turner for tweens. It’s a great pick for readers who like drama, fashion, and stories about finding confidence.
Setting: wealthy suburbs of Westchester County, New York; private middle school
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Clique right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Clique. The reading level is AR 4.7, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 11+ (6th grade and up). Themes include friendship, popularity and social hierarchy, bullying and peer pressure.
How long does it take to read Clique?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Clique takes around 6.3h to finish. The book has 57,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Clique have an AR quiz?
Yes — Clique has an AR quiz available, worth 6 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Clique?
Clique has an AR reading level of 4.7, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Middle Grades Plus (6+) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.