Claudia and the new girl
by Ann M. Martin · · 1988
When creative middle-schooler Claudia Kishi meets sophisticated new student Ashley Wyeth, she finds a kindred spirit who shares her deep passion for making art. However, Ashley's belief that serious artists must abandon all other commitments puts strain on Claudia's involvement with the Baby-sitters Club. Claudia must ultimately figure out how to nurture her artistic talents without turning her back on her loyal friends or neglecting her responsibilities.
- Age range
- Ages 10–14
- Category
- Middle Grade Reads
- ISBN
worldview score
Content ratings
0 means absent, 5 means heavy and central.
Parent notes
Claudia and the New Girl explores the realistic middle-grade struggle between pursuing individual talents and keeping promises to friends. While Claudia is temporarily influenced by Ashley's somewhat dismissive view of regular middle school activities, she ultimately learns that artistic expression does not require self-centeredness or abandoning existing commitments. Families can use this story to talk about managing peer pressure, balancing busy schedules, and valuing friends with different interests.
Find the full book
We only publish reviews, never book text. These independent catalogs can help you borrow or buy a copy.
- Open LibraryFree catalog record and borrowing options
- WorldCatFind a copy at a library near you
- Google BooksPreview pages and publisher details
Faith Reads is independent and not affiliated with any author, publisher, retailer, or the services linked above.
Discussion questions
- 1Which specific moment between Claudia and Ashley best captured the conflict Claudia felt about her art, and what made that scene stand out to you?
- 2How do you think Ann M. Martin wants readers to view Ashley's attitude toward people who do not share her intense focus on sculpture and painting?
- 3In what way can you show extra loyalty and reliability to one of your close friends this week when your schedule gets busy?
- 4Claudia experiences great joy in creating art; how does her enthusiasm remind us of the beauty God placed in human creativity?
- 5Does the story suggest that artistic achievements are more valuable than treating others with care, or does it point toward a different priority for human relationships?
Community reviews
Written by parents and caregivers, not by Faith Reads. Reviews reflect their authors' own families and traditions.
No parent reviews yet — be the first to share how this book landed in your home.
Sign in to add your own review of this book.
