Good Girls
by Laura Ruby
HarperTempest 2008
Easy read — content targets 9th–12th grade
Reading level 4.8 (4th grade) but themes aimed at ages 14+
Bookshop.org supports independent bookstores. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Retailer links may be affiliate links.
Genre
Themes
- reputation and gossip
- slut-shaming and double standards
- identity and self-acceptance
- friendship and loyalty
- first love and heartbreak
- consent and privacy
- resilience
- family relationships
About this book
A private photo meant for one person suddenly goes public, and a smart, funny high school girl finds her life upended by gossip and double standards. As rumors spread, she navigates shaky friendships, family expectations, and the pressure to be a "good girl" in a world quick to judge. With sharp humor and honesty, the story explores reputation, consent, and finding your voice. Best for older teens, it’s a candid, relatable read that sparks discussion.
Setting: a contemporary suburban American high school
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Good Girls right for my child?
It depends — here's what to consider for Good Girls. The reading level is AR 4.8, which is typical for 4th grade. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 14+ (9th–12th grade). Themes include reputation and gossip, slut-shaming and double standards, identity and self-acceptance.
How long does it take to read Good Girls?
At a typical 4th grade reading pace, Good Girls takes around 8.7h to finish. The book has 78,000 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Good Girls have an AR quiz?
Yes — Good Girls has an AR quiz available, worth 10 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 Good Girls?
Good Girls has an AR reading level of 4.8, which places it at a 4th grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Upper Grades (9–12) — 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.