Simon and Chester are back at it again! I was expecting this to be the typical “friend is jealous their best friend has other friends,” and, yes, it started that way. But this is a simple, effective way to show kids no one wants to be a secret friend.

The resolution felt very abrupt and fast. Compared to the other books of the series this feels rushed and less complete. But there’s (not a cliffhanger) an obvious signal the conflict between Chester, Amie, and Simon will be further explored in other books.

Ultimately, real friends aren’t ashamed to acknowledge their friends in front of others.