Willow and Hadley bond over shared frustration that their moms, both influencers on social media, seem to care more about their followers than what’s best for their children. They are constantly being asked to pose for the camera or capture what should be a private moment for an audience. There are perks, of course, in the way of sponsor-provided clothes and gadgets and income from the sharing platforms. But all the two really want to do is be anonymous middle-schoolers.
When they start sharing private notes about what really goes on behind the scenes, it’s just a matter of time before that info goes public. And if they thought life was difficult before then, that’s nothing compared to the problems that arise from the fallout. But it also might just make the change they seek possible.
So Over Sharing by Elissa Brent Weissman looks at the influencer culture as it affects children. Figuring out who you are as a pre-teen is difficult, but even more so when seemingly the whole world can see your struggles. Hadley and Willow want more than anything for their moms to see them as they are and not push them into fitting a brand.
The book brings up lots of good questions to consider and discuss, like should children be paid if their parents make money posting about them. And is it okay to make details of children’s lives public when they have not given their permission. Also, what age is someone deemed able to give permission. The topic flips the script on the assumption that all young people overshare and adults don’t spend as much time online.
I recommend So Over Sharing for readers aged 9 to 12.
The publisher provided a copy of this title in exchange for my honest review.
