Maybe He Just Likes You

This timely exploration of a depressingly common experience should begin some useful conversations.

Important for its relevance and examination of the otherwise little-discussed topic of sexual harassment among younger teens, Maybe He Just Likes You will appeal to middle-grade readers as well as parents and educators seeking to bolster a child's awareness of this rampant problem.

Dee (Everything I Know About You) draws a clear distinction between flirtation and sexual harassment in this timely, sensitively wrought novel about a seventh-grade girl who receives unwanted attention from a group of classmates. When Mila wears her fuzzy green sweater, some boys demand an unwanted hug, and the basketball players insist on touching it (and her) for good luck. Despite Mila's protests, unwanted touching continues even after she stops wearing the sweater, but Mila is reticent to add to her divorced mother's stress after she loses her job. Mila finally shares her discomfort with her friends; Omi smooths things over, Zara thinks the boys are merely flirting, and Max believes that Mila should tell the (male) vice principal she's being bullied. More confused than ever, she remains silent until karate classes give her the skill set and courage to fight back and speak out. The novel's all-too-familiar scenario offers a springboard for discussion among middle schoolers about Mila's experience, as well as her confusion, fear, and reluctance to discuss her situation with authority figures. Easily grasped scenarios and short chapters help make this timely #MeToo story accessible to a wide audience. Ages 9-13. Agent: Jill Grinberg, Jill Grinberg Literary Management. (Oct.)

Copyright 2019 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

Gr 4-8--The first time the group of boys asked for hugs, seventh grader Mila felt uncomfortable. As the requests for hugs and unwanted touches increase in frequency, Mila does not know where to turn. Her mother is going through a tough time herself, and Mila doesn't want to add to her stress. Some of her friends brush off her complaints of unwanted attention as flirting. When Mila finds out that touching her has become a game to the boys and attempts to confront them, they deny action and intent. Her initial efforts to get help from staff at her school are met with heartbreakingly minimized responses. This relatable text provides young readers with a believable example of what sexual harassment may look and feel like at a middle school level. Dee creates a varied cast of characters with evolving perspectives, including adults who were initially dismissive of Mila's harassment. Told from Mila's point of view, the novel is at its best in moments of emotional intensity. Mila's reaction to her situation sometimes surprises even herself, when her initial doubts and fear turn to rage. Mila ultimately finds tools and allies who help resolve her situation, though the conclusion seems speedy compared to the rest of the story. VERDICT An important read with great potential for classroom use. Mila's experience may resonate with young readers, who may need to follow up with a trusted adult.--Juliet Morefield, Multnomah County Library, Portland, OR

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Mila's struggle between denying the intentions of her classmates and being self-aware and upset about their treatment of her is realistic and heartbreaking . . . an excellent choice to inspire conversations about the prevalence and scope of what's considered sexual harassment, as well as help young readers identify what harassment could look like in their peers. —BCCB

The book is equally important for boys so that they might understand their own feelings and the feelings of those who might be victims of their adolescent humor. This title belongs in the school library as well as the classroom library. —School Library Connection

Mila is a finely-drawn, sympathetic character dealing with a problem all too common in middle school. Readers will be cheering when she takes control! An important topic addressed in an age-appropriate way. —Katherine Brubaker Bradley, author of The War That Saved My Life (Newbery Honor Book)

In Maybe He Just Likes You, Barbara Dee sensitively breaks down the nuances of a situation all too common in our culture—a girl not only being harassed, but not being listened to as she tries to ask for help. This well-crafted story validates Mila's anger, confusion, and fear, but also illuminates a pathway towards speaking up and speaking out. A vital read for both girls and boys. —Veera Hiranandani, author of The Night Diary (Newbery Honor Book)

Mila's journey will resonate with many readers, exploring a formative and common experience of early adolescence that has too often been ignored. Important and empowering. —Ashley Herring Blake, author of Ivy Aberdeen's Letter to the World (Stonewall Honor Book)

Maybe He Just Likes You is an important, timeless story with funny, believable characters. Mila's situation is one that many readers will connect with. This book is sure to spark many productive conversations. —Dusti Bowling, author of Insignificant Events in the Life of A Cactus

In this masterful, relatable and wholly unique story, Dee shows how one girl named Mila finds empowerment, strength, and courage within. I loved this book. —Elly Swartz, author of Smart Cookie and Give and Take

Maybe He Just Likes You is the perfect way to jumpstart dialogue between boy and girl readers about respect and boundaries. This book is so good. So needed! I loved it! —Paula Chase, author of So Done and Dough Boys