The After School Crime Club

Willow's journey in The After School Crime Club highlights the challenges of fitting in while navigating peer pressure and self-discovery.

In The After School Crime Club, Willow has always felt like an outsider at school. Despite her struggles to fit in, she found solace in the bond she shared with her Nanna. Their similarities brought her comfort, and for a time, Willow felt a sense of belonging. However, with Nanna's passing, Willow finds herself adrift and more isolated than ever.

Desperate for connection, Willow is drawn to a group of girls who offer her friendship through a series of 'fun' stealing dares. Initially, the thrill of these dares seems like a way to gain acceptance, but as they escalate, Willow begins to question the cost of fitting in. The peer pressure mounts, and she realizes that the line between fun and wrongdoing is becoming increasingly blurred.

This wise, warm, and uplifting story from the acclaimed author of Luna Rae is Not Alone delves into the complexities of adolescence, exploring themes of identity, loss, and the importance of self-acceptance. The After School Crime Club ultimately reveals that true friendship should never require compromising one's values, and that discovering one's worth is a journey worth taking.