Cliques, Phonies, and Other Baloney »

When Trevor Romain was 12, his teacher told him he wasn't talented enough to do art. By accident, he found out 20 years later that he could draw. Since that lucky day, he has written and illustrated 20 books for children. In addition to writing, illustrating, and speaking at schools, Trevor is a board member of the Candlelighters Childhood Cancer Foundation and can often be found on the cancer ward at Brackenridge Hospital in Austin, Texas, doing his rounds as “Doctor of Mischief.”

Cliques can make you sick. If you’re on the outside, you’re treated like dirt. And if you’re on the inside, you have to follow the rules. Who needs more rules at school?

Written for every kid who has ever felt excluded or trapped by a clique, this book blends humor with practical advice as it tackles a serious subject.

Trevor Romain starts by explaining what cliques are and why they exist: because everyone wants to have friends. He reveals why some cliques are so annoying—and often full of phonies. And he shares the secret to being popular: just be yourself!

Trevor knows how to get through to kids. As readers smile at his cartoons and laugh at his jokes, they’ll also be learning skills they need to make and keep friends—real friends, not people who pretend to be cool.

They’ll discover that some supposedly “popular” kids are lonely and miserable inside. And they’ll pick up important self-esteem tips that will help them feel good about themselves (because there’s no need to let a bad clique spoil a perfectly good day).

Children's Literature

Romain takes a serious look at cliques, friendships, popularity and phonies. He tackles these very important issues with a touch of humor, and readers will enjoy the easy comic style and illustrations. Other topics of great interest to preadolescents include, the clique myth, how to spot a phony, polishing people skills, and do's and don'ts for making friends. Some typical pointers include saying hi to others first, complimenting others, and the admonition to not stay inside all day watching TV.