Karen's Sleepover (LSGN#8)

 Publication date: 2024

Ghostwriter? No, the text copyright is for Ann M. Martin

Illustrators: Katy Farina

Synopsis:

Karen is set to host her first sleepover party, and of course is beyond excited. She brainstorms with Kristy about what to do, and even hand-writes invitations and mails them. But Nancy doesn't get hers, and gets furious about feeling left out--all the other girls in the class got invitations! She does it get a few days later, but Karen's already so mad at Nancy's behavior over something completely out of Karen's control (she mailed them all the same day from the same place) that she un-invites Nancy. They're not best friends anymore; they're best enemies. 

It's a stupid fight, but a completely believable one for seven-year-olds.

Distraction comes in the form of Pamela Harding, a new girl to the class. She's super cool and sophisticated. Naturally, Karen is eager to befriend her, and invites her to the sleepover. The big day arrives, but Karen and her other friends quickly notice that Pamela is too busy acting too mature for everything to have fun, and makes them feel like babies for liking what they do. After talking with Kristy for a bit, Karen calls Nancy and they make up, and she comes over to rescue the party. She's able to let the snide comments roll off her back (e.g.; Pamela says she only sleeps in beds, not sleeping bags; Nancy calmly says, "How boring.") and get the party back on track. The next day after the other classmates have gone home, Karen, Nancy, and Hannie reflect that they've had a few fights, usually over silly things. They vow to become the Three Musketeers, and be friends for life.

Continuity related to BSC books:

"Kristy and her friends in the Baby-sitters Club have lots of sleepovers." True.

Misc:

Martin dedicates this book in honor of "the birth of Emma Feiwel" and Farina to "all the readers who have joined me on my adventures with Karen."

Drawings of Angry Boo-Boo are always gold.

Pamela Harding:

Subtle but sweet touch: Charlie is holding Andrew and Emily Michelle on his lap to read them a book.