Sweet Valley Twins: The New Girl: (A Graphic Novel)
#6 of 6 in Sweet Valley Twins S. Series
What’s inside...
Identical twins Elizabeth and Jessica Wakefield are sixth-graders at Sweet Valley Middle School. When shy newcomer Nora Mercandy arrives, rumors begin flying about her "creepy" grandfather and the dilapidated mansion where she lives. Jessica and the popular Unicorn Club spread gossip and exclude Nora, while Elizabeth senses there is more to the story and tries to welcome her. A series of misunderstandings, pranks, and hurt feelings follow until the truth about Nora’s family situation comes out, forcing the twins—and their classmates—to re-examine kindness, empathy, and the power of rumors.
Character compass
Elizabeth Wakefield
Brooke Dennis
Jessica Wakefield
Janet Howell
Lila Fowler
Discussion points
Why do rumors spread so quickly at school?
How could Jessica have handled her jealousy differently?
What actions show Elizabeth’s empathy toward Nora?
Have you ever felt misunderstood like Nora? What helped?
Why is apologizing important even when it feels hard?
Tip: Role play these questions
Role-play welcoming a new student to model inclusive behavior.
Compare how each twin reacts and discuss personality differences.
Create a "kindness plan" for handling rumors in real life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Gossip hurts everyone involved
Explanation: Rumors isolate Nora and later embarrass Jessica.
Real-World Application: Pause before sharing unverified stories about classmates.
Example Lesson: Empathy requires active listening
Explanation: Elizabeth learns Nora’s personal struggles by asking questions.
Real-World Application: Listen to new peers before forming opinions.
Example Lesson: Apologizing shows strength
Explanation: Jessica’s public apology restores trust and friendship.
Real-World Application: Own up to mistakes and make amends quickly.
Example Lesson: Popularity isn’t worth hurting others
Explanation: Jessica risks her reputation to correct her wrongdoing.
Real-World Application: Value kindness over social status at school.