Set against the backdrop of a suburban neighborhood in the late 1980s, "The Independents" follows the adventures of Avery, who finds herself uprooted from familiar surroundings and thrust into a new environment devoid of friends. As she deals with the loss of her journal, new relationships, and the challenges of assimilation, Avery's journey intertwines with those of Chris, Skylar, Damien, and Natalie—each facing their own unique struggles and triumphs. Together, their shared experiences serve as a reminder of the significance of empathy, understanding, and genuine friendship. At its core, The Independents is an inspiring tale of friendship, resilience, and transition that promises to captivate readers of all ages and backgrounds. In less than 200 pages, ‘The Independents’ delivers a fun, nostalgic tween journey through the trials of 7th grade. This heartwarming mystery is perfect for lovers of realistic fiction.