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“An absorbing, empathetic story that explores personal ethics and peeks behind the curtains of online perfectionism.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“Readers will find Ahn’s characters to be likable and sympathetic as they face difficult questions around social media and familiar social convictions.”

– Booklist

“Ahn explores the importance of being present in a moment and being true to yourself. An enjoyable … read for readers looking for a love story with a little drama.”

– School Library Journal

Bad Influence

Written by Claire Ahn
Published by Viking Books for Young Readers

Seventeen-year-old Charlotte Goh is juggling two very different personas: the dutiful Korean daughter, and the hustling NYC fashion influencer. Her best friend Steven scoffs at her ambition, but she secretly hopes that her posts will help financially support her struggling family. Then one night, after posting about a racist experience she had at an influencer event, Charlotte finds herself going viral and garnering the fame she’s always craved. And as much as she doesn’t want her newfound popularity to change her, she can’t help but be swept away by the exciting perks: chic new friends, the attention of one of Hollywood’s hottest heartthrobs, and a slew of companies clamoring to sponsor her.

But as she falls deeper into the influencer world, she finds that she may have to sacrifice more than she bargained for—including her unexpected new feelings for Steven. Will Charlotte be able to stay true to herself, or will she lose the things that are most important to her?

Primary ISBN: 9780593403167
Publication Date: April 2025
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Young Adult, Age 12 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (New York City NY)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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