Lizzie can’t believe it-gorgeous Ethan Craft wants to have lunch with her! Not only that, she’ll get to meet Ethan’s new friend, a mysterious kid who’s just transferred from Fiji. He’s already made a movie with Steven Spielberg, skipped three grades, and taught Britney Spears how to dance! There’s only one problem. When Lizzie sees the new kid, she realizes he’s just her annoying kid brother, Matt. He got on the wrong school bus, told everyone a pack of lies . . . and now he’s the most popular kid at Lizzie’s school! Should Lizzie totally bust him-or sit back and hope that his popularity rubs off on her? Plus, Lizzie gets a job at her favorite hangout, and finds out what it’s like to be in over her head.
Dive into the hilarious and relatable world of adolescence with "Totally Crushed!", a delightful installment from the beloved *Lizzie McGuire* series, penned in the voice of Lizzie herself. This engaging paperback, published by Egmont Books Ltd in 2003, captures the quintessential middle school experience with all its awkward moments, social anxieties, and blossoming crushes. Lizzie's life takes an unexpected turn when the dreamy Ethan Craft expresses interest in having lunch with her. Adding to the excitement is the arrival of a mysterious new kid from Fiji, whose tall tales of Spielberg collaborations, dance lessons with Britney Spears, and skipped grades instantly make him the talk of the school. Lizzie's anticipation quickly turns to disbelief (and maybe a little embarrassment!) when she discovers the new kid is none other than her mischievous younger brother, Matt. Matt's elaborate charade has transformed him into the most popular kid at school, leaving Lizzie with a tricky dilemma. Should she expose his web of lies and risk ruining his newfound popularity, or should she capitalize on the situation and hope some of his popularity rubs off on her? This internal conflict forms the core of a story packed with humor, sibling rivalry, and the timeless quest for social acceptance. Beyond the Matt-induced chaos, Lizzie embarks on a new adventure as she lands a job at her favorite hangout. While initially thrilled, she soon discovers that being on the other side of the counter comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. Working at her favorite hangout spot, she's forced to learn about the pressures of keeping up with the demands of the adult world, of having to be responsible and manage expectations. This side plot provides a relatable glimpse into the working world and underscores the importance of hard work and perseverance. "Totally Crushed!" perfectly captures the essence of the *Lizzie McGuire* franchise. It explores themes of identity, honesty, and the importance of staying true to yourself, even in the face of peer pressure. Lizzie's witty narration and relatable struggles will resonate with young readers navigating the complexities of middle school. While listed as part of a 10-book set, "Totally Crushed!" stands alone as an enjoyable read, appealing to fans of the *Lizzie McGuire* television series and newcomers alike. At 128 pages, it's a quick and engaging read perfect for young readers seeking a dose of humor and heartwarming storytelling. Get ready to laugh along with Lizzie as she navigates friendship, family, and the ever-changing landscape of middle school popularity!