What do you think?
Rate this book
The Secrets We Keep #3
The Edge of Thirteen
Clem Timmins can't wait to see her best friends after being apart all summer holidays. But when they get back together, things have changed. Bridge is boy-crazy and acting like a different person. Ellie is wearing a bra and having a real-life romance. Clem feels left behind. When she makes friends with Tom, suddenly everyone's gossiping about whether they're going to be a couple. Clem's got no interest in having a boyfriend. Or does she?
At school camp, Bridge crosses the line and Clem has to ask herself - can she keep growing up with her friends when they're growing apart?
This story of fitting in and falling out perfectly captures how it feels to balance on the edge of who you are and who you want to be.
At school camp, Bridge crosses the line and Clem has to ask herself - can she keep growing up with her friends when they're growing apart?
This story of fitting in and falling out perfectly captures how it feels to balance on the edge of who you are and who you want to be.
256 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2021
43 people are currently reading
297 people want to read
About the author
Nova Weetman
27 books109 followersNova Weetman wrote short fiction and children’s television before publishing her first YA novel, The Haunting of Lily Frost, in 2014. She lives with her partner, a playwright, and their two children in Brunswick, Australia.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
July 20, 2022
This was the third book in Nove Weetman's engaging story of Clem's growing up from year six to year eight. Her best friends Bridge and Ellie are still around, her mum is back home, they are all moved back into her rebuilt home destroyed by fire at the beginning of the first book, but all is not well in Clem's life.
There was far less drama than in the first two books, other than delayed puberty, difficulties with her friends, her relationship with her mum, but Clem came across here more like a whining 13 year old, which she was. A bit too self absorbed for me, with little character development to make a more engaging story, especially as we have gotten to know Clem over the past two books. Just ok.
There was far less drama than in the first two books, other than delayed puberty, difficulties with her friends, her relationship with her mum, but Clem came across here more like a whining 13 year old, which she was. A bit too self absorbed for me, with little character development to make a more engaging story, especially as we have gotten to know Clem over the past two books. Just ok.
March 3, 2021
When I was thirteen, my favourite books were by Judy Blume and Beverly Cleary. I literally inhaled their stories for teens, and reading Nova Weetman’s The Edge of Thirteen brought back all those feels.
This is my first Clem Timmins book and I was charmed by her character — she’s a little kooky, a little grouchy, a little unsure of herself while at the same time being strong and confident — she’s a complex swirl of teen emotion.
Clem is thirteen and going into year 8 at school. Her best friends, Ellie and Bridge have changed over the summer break, but Clem is still flat-chested, hasn’t had her period and she isn’t boy crazy. She’s smaller than her friends too, but that doesn’t make her any less mature. When the three friends go away for outdoor ed camp, their friendships are tested, Clem humiliates herself big time, and it’s all a bit disastrous.
What I liked about The Edge of Thirteen was the easy to read, gentle story about finding your own path. There was nothing jarring in this story and I would confidently share this story with young readers. Clem is wonderfully drawn, and Weetman’s writing is both clear and highly visual — something I really value in the books I read. This is a gorgeous book and one I thoroughly enjoyed. More, please!
Many thanks to UQP for gifting me this book
This is my first Clem Timmins book and I was charmed by her character — she’s a little kooky, a little grouchy, a little unsure of herself while at the same time being strong and confident — she’s a complex swirl of teen emotion.
Clem is thirteen and going into year 8 at school. Her best friends, Ellie and Bridge have changed over the summer break, but Clem is still flat-chested, hasn’t had her period and she isn’t boy crazy. She’s smaller than her friends too, but that doesn’t make her any less mature. When the three friends go away for outdoor ed camp, their friendships are tested, Clem humiliates herself big time, and it’s all a bit disastrous.
What I liked about The Edge of Thirteen was the easy to read, gentle story about finding your own path. There was nothing jarring in this story and I would confidently share this story with young readers. Clem is wonderfully drawn, and Weetman’s writing is both clear and highly visual — something I really value in the books I read. This is a gorgeous book and one I thoroughly enjoyed. More, please!
Many thanks to UQP for gifting me this book
March 7, 2021
Review from my youngest who will read anything that Nova Weetman writes (Ever):
I enjoyed this book sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much! :D It's the first book that I have ever read in one day, ONE WHOLE DAY! It's a unique occurrence for me, since I haven't always loved reading. This book is one of the most amazing books I have read. It's very realistic, and all the characters are complex in their own ways. I am sure to re-read this over and over again, and of course tell all my friends and family about this one of a kind, wonderful book :D :)
I enjoyed this book sooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo much! :D It's the first book that I have ever read in one day, ONE WHOLE DAY! It's a unique occurrence for me, since I haven't always loved reading. This book is one of the most amazing books I have read. It's very realistic, and all the characters are complex in their own ways. I am sure to re-read this over and over again, and of course tell all my friends and family about this one of a kind, wonderful book :D :)
January 1, 2024
Trigger warnings: nothing?
3.5 stars
The kids at school are OBSESSED with Nova Weetman, and I was really intrigued to see that she's now crossing the border into young adult, but young adult written for 13-14 year olds, not for 16-17 year olds as a lot of YA now feels.
Anyway, on the one hand, I liked this because it feels very authentically Year 8. But on the other hand, it kind of also felt simultaneously very Year 6. The vast majority of kids now get their periods for the first time in Years 5-7. Add in the fact that a lot of Year 6 kids now have Tiktok, let alone Instagram, it felt a little...odd...for this Year 8 kid to be going through some of those puberty-related dramas. And maybe that was intentional so that Weetman's existing audience aren't too young to read this? But the fact remains, it felt a TAD young a lot of the time.
Ultimately I think I would have preferred if this was set in Year 7 than Year 8, but that might just be a Me Thing...
3.5 stars
The kids at school are OBSESSED with Nova Weetman, and I was really intrigued to see that she's now crossing the border into young adult, but young adult written for 13-14 year olds, not for 16-17 year olds as a lot of YA now feels.
Anyway, on the one hand, I liked this because it feels very authentically Year 8. But on the other hand, it kind of also felt simultaneously very Year 6. The vast majority of kids now get their periods for the first time in Years 5-7. Add in the fact that a lot of Year 6 kids now have Tiktok, let alone Instagram, it felt a little...odd...for this Year 8 kid to be going through some of those puberty-related dramas. And maybe that was intentional so that Weetman's existing audience aren't too young to read this? But the fact remains, it felt a TAD young a lot of the time.
Ultimately I think I would have preferred if this was set in Year 7 than Year 8, but that might just be a Me Thing...
June 30, 2021
Very Judy Blume, very relatable book on those difficult early teenage years when everything changes and keeping up is difficult. It reminds you how tricky 13 is, and throw in boys, a school camp and arguments with your best friend and you’ve got one real life situation there. Great for year 7/8s but suitable lower to year 5/6.
June 27, 2021
This review is on behalf of my 12 year old daughter:
“A very relatable story for teens and almost teens.
What the main character goes through feels very real. I loved how Clem was such a big nerd for plants and trees with her dad and when the class went on camp. There are parts that made me laugh out loud.
The argument/fight with Brige was very believable. Loved her friendship with Jacqs and Tom. I was sad when it ended because I loved it so much, I didn’t want it to end!”
“A very relatable story for teens and almost teens.
What the main character goes through feels very real. I loved how Clem was such a big nerd for plants and trees with her dad and when the class went on camp. There are parts that made me laugh out loud.
The argument/fight with Brige was very believable. Loved her friendship with Jacqs and Tom. I was sad when it ended because I loved it so much, I didn’t want it to end!”
January 11, 2022
I loved reading this relatable coming of age story, and would have loved it even more (if possible) when I was Clem’s age. I can’t wait to share it with all the 12 & 13 year olds I know.
April 7, 2021
A good story for Intermediate age girls who will identify with main character 13 year old Clem and her friends as they enter their teen years and physical, social and emotional changes. Nova Weetman books are great for girls at this age.
May 14, 2021
This book is an amazing book. You need to read the secrets we keep and the secrets we share before you read this book because it doesn't make a lot of sense otherwise. An amazing book, one of Nova Weetmans book
March 5, 2021
So true to life - perfectly captures all the angst and feels of this age.
November 7, 2021
On my list based on a review I think in an Australian newspaper or litmag. Did NOT disappoint. First my 13 y/o read it in one afternoon - not to be interrupted. Next I did.
Nova Weetman NAILS being 13.
Nova Weetman NAILS being 13.
July 14, 2022
Ok but why is this book so good! It’s so relatable and it just helps you feel good about yourself and to treasure friendship and talk about your feelings and just to not rush things and try an d grow up to fast. Honestly probably favourite or 2nd fav book!
April 5, 2021
Many young readers will find this book a perfect read as they venture (reluctantly or eagerly) into life as a teenager. This book maybe just the alternative guide to a fact book for those in late primary or early secondary to find out more about navigating the complex changes to ones body, relationships and expectations of peers and family.
June 3, 2022
this book perfectly describes the ups and downs of turning thirteen, and i saw myself at the time in pages as i read. I absolutely adored this book and would recommend it to everyone in yr6 and yr7 that i know.
March 23, 2024
The final book in the "Secrets we share" series and another beautifully written book.
Clem is a beautiful character, and I've loved reading about her newest adventures. This book saw her enter her 2nd yr of high school, navigating hormones, boys, and new friendships.
It's a wonderful representation of how hard life seems at 13 trying to grow up and fit in while holding on to your youth.
As a mum, I sympathised with her parents. Trying to help her have her independence while still keeping her close & not wanting her to lose her innocence.
I'm almost sad to see Clems story finished and hoped to see how each year went for her. 🤣
Clem is a beautiful character, and I've loved reading about her newest adventures. This book saw her enter her 2nd yr of high school, navigating hormones, boys, and new friendships.
It's a wonderful representation of how hard life seems at 13 trying to grow up and fit in while holding on to your youth.
As a mum, I sympathised with her parents. Trying to help her have her independence while still keeping her close & not wanting her to lose her innocence.
I'm almost sad to see Clems story finished and hoped to see how each year went for her. 🤣
April 14, 2021
Clem Timmins is about to start Year 8 at school with her best friends. But after spending the summer holidays apart, things are beginning to change. Bridge is suddenly boy-crazy. Ellie is wearing a bra and has a boyfriend. And Clem? She still goes on outings with her parents, doesn't need a bra and she is just not that sure she is ready for a boyfriend. She is still the same tree nerd she always was, isn't she?
In a year when so much changes for young girls, when it's all about taking those first tentative steps towards gaining independence from your parents, when getting your period can either be the most exciting thing ever or something you just don't want to think about, a time of first crushes and first heartbreaks, turning 13 can be traumatic and a time of upheaval.
Gentle, emotional, like a big warm hug. This is a book many young girls will see themselves represented in. At the heart of it all is friendship - how it changes as we get older, how it is ok to make new friends outside your usual friendship group, how it is okay to disagree with your friends. Real friends will always be there for you, despite everything.
And of course, I love how the role of the school library and school librarian is portrayed. 😊
I love to incude quotes in my reviews, but the one I really want to include happens to be the last paragraph - and you know, spoilers. So, I would just say - read this book. It is worth it.
If you are the parent of a young girl, or know a young girl, or are a young girl, who is 13 or about to turn 13... this is the book for you. A perfect book for the young, about to be women, in our lives and even better, a perfect book to read with them.
In a year when so much changes for young girls, when it's all about taking those first tentative steps towards gaining independence from your parents, when getting your period can either be the most exciting thing ever or something you just don't want to think about, a time of first crushes and first heartbreaks, turning 13 can be traumatic and a time of upheaval.
Gentle, emotional, like a big warm hug. This is a book many young girls will see themselves represented in. At the heart of it all is friendship - how it changes as we get older, how it is ok to make new friends outside your usual friendship group, how it is okay to disagree with your friends. Real friends will always be there for you, despite everything.
And of course, I love how the role of the school library and school librarian is portrayed. 😊
I love to incude quotes in my reviews, but the one I really want to include happens to be the last paragraph - and you know, spoilers. So, I would just say - read this book. It is worth it.
If you are the parent of a young girl, or know a young girl, or are a young girl, who is 13 or about to turn 13... this is the book for you. A perfect book for the young, about to be women, in our lives and even better, a perfect book to read with them.
July 22, 2021
This is the 3rd story in Nova Weetman's Clem series and this time Clem is dealing with becoming a teenager.
Nova has captured that in-between stage where you're too old for the play equipment but too young to be given a mobile phone. Clem is starting to find hanging with her parents embarrassing, her friends start to suddenly take an interest in boys and everyone's growing boobs but her.
There's such a level of honesty to this portrayal of adolescence that I can't help but feel Nova has followed around three teenage girls and just recorded their conversations and interactions verbatim. From fights over being besties, sharing insta pics, incorrectly assuming each others romantic intentions it's quite the slice of life and I'm sure that many readers will relate.
I really enjoyed the way Clem's relationship with her parents fractured as her insecurities about being seen in public with them grew. The role of social media in adding to her stress is also illustrated really well but Nova also suggests that it's not just a bogeyman but also a way to heal and connect with others too.
On the surface this is a coming of age story set over summer and school camp, but it will open up discussions for readers aged 12-15 around responsibility, friendships and gelato.
Nova has captured that in-between stage where you're too old for the play equipment but too young to be given a mobile phone. Clem is starting to find hanging with her parents embarrassing, her friends start to suddenly take an interest in boys and everyone's growing boobs but her.
There's such a level of honesty to this portrayal of adolescence that I can't help but feel Nova has followed around three teenage girls and just recorded their conversations and interactions verbatim. From fights over being besties, sharing insta pics, incorrectly assuming each others romantic intentions it's quite the slice of life and I'm sure that many readers will relate.
I really enjoyed the way Clem's relationship with her parents fractured as her insecurities about being seen in public with them grew. The role of social media in adding to her stress is also illustrated really well but Nova also suggests that it's not just a bogeyman but also a way to heal and connect with others too.
On the surface this is a coming of age story set over summer and school camp, but it will open up discussions for readers aged 12-15 around responsibility, friendships and gelato.
March 26, 2022
I am new to Nova Weetman's writing and I didn't realise that this was the third book in a series, coming after The Secrets We Keep and The Secrets We Share. The fact that I didn't realise until about three minutes ago must mean that the story works as a stand-alone as well!!
Clem is looking forward to seeing her two best friends after the long summer break, but when they come back things have changed... Bridge and Ellie have become a little boy obsessed, have started their periods and have boobs. Clem still loves trees and having ice cream dates with her dad!
When they all go on a school camp with a group of other students, matters between Clem and Bridge come to a head after they both make poor choices in how they treat each other.
Some coming-of-age books can be a bit cringy, but Nova Weetman seems to have hit a perfect balance of genuine teenage cringe, interesting characters and a relatable plot. This will definitely be a hit in my school library... and I do actually have the other two books ready to go out as well, so I will make sure my students know that there IS an order!!!
Clem is looking forward to seeing her two best friends after the long summer break, but when they come back things have changed... Bridge and Ellie have become a little boy obsessed, have started their periods and have boobs. Clem still loves trees and having ice cream dates with her dad!
When they all go on a school camp with a group of other students, matters between Clem and Bridge come to a head after they both make poor choices in how they treat each other.
Some coming-of-age books can be a bit cringy, but Nova Weetman seems to have hit a perfect balance of genuine teenage cringe, interesting characters and a relatable plot. This will definitely be a hit in my school library... and I do actually have the other two books ready to go out as well, so I will make sure my students know that there IS an order!!!
September 7, 2021
Clem has had an unusual summer holiday. The family have moved into the new house. The old one burned down a couple of years ago. Her best friends went away for the whole holiday. Clem’s marking ff the days on her calendar waiting to see them again.
Boobs, or the lack of them worry Clem. He friends both have their period and Clem lies saying she does too. Brid has boobs and is boy mad, always wondering who it cute and what the latest news is. Ellie isn’t so fascinated by boys but Sammy likes Ellie.
Clem has worked out that telling Mum bits of news means that she can get away without telling her everything. Mum, Dad, and Clem all go to buy gelati shop together. Clem’s enjoying her ice-cream when a girl from school makes a mean comment.
School is complicated too. Who to sit next too, who to avoid and what it all means? School camp looks like it will be even trickier. How does Clem work out who are her friends anymore?
I enjoyed the dilemmas the teens experienced.
Recommended for Tweens 10+
Boobs, or the lack of them worry Clem. He friends both have their period and Clem lies saying she does too. Brid has boobs and is boy mad, always wondering who it cute and what the latest news is. Ellie isn’t so fascinated by boys but Sammy likes Ellie.
Clem has worked out that telling Mum bits of news means that she can get away without telling her everything. Mum, Dad, and Clem all go to buy gelati shop together. Clem’s enjoying her ice-cream when a girl from school makes a mean comment.
School is complicated too. Who to sit next too, who to avoid and what it all means? School camp looks like it will be even trickier. How does Clem work out who are her friends anymore?
I enjoyed the dilemmas the teens experienced.
Recommended for Tweens 10+
December 19, 2025
Nova Weetman is a fantastic writer and captures realistic and interesting themes of tween/teenager in her novels.
Clem has two best friends, Bridge (Bridget) and Ellie and has been since 5. Clem is counting down days on her tree calendar (Her and her family loves trees and plants) until her friends come back from their holidays. However, when she finally sees them, things have really changed. Both her friends seem much bigger than her as if she is the little sister and they both have proper boobs so are wearing bras now, have both got their period and are boy obsessed. Clem tries to fit in to their new way by pretending to think boys are cute, get Instagram and pretending to have gotten her period but she doesn't like it this way.
When the girls go on camp, there becomes a lot of tension between the girls, especially Clem and Bridge and Clem when Bridge says a boy likes Clem and she kisses him when he doesn't like girls full stop! Clem needs a change and makes friends with Jaqs.
Clem has two best friends, Bridge (Bridget) and Ellie and has been since 5. Clem is counting down days on her tree calendar (Her and her family loves trees and plants) until her friends come back from their holidays. However, when she finally sees them, things have really changed. Both her friends seem much bigger than her as if she is the little sister and they both have proper boobs so are wearing bras now, have both got their period and are boy obsessed. Clem tries to fit in to their new way by pretending to think boys are cute, get Instagram and pretending to have gotten her period but she doesn't like it this way.
When the girls go on camp, there becomes a lot of tension between the girls, especially Clem and Bridge and Clem when Bridge says a boy likes Clem and she kisses him when he doesn't like girls full stop! Clem needs a change and makes friends with Jaqs.
March 26, 2021
Here is a novel that I promise will delight the young people in your life, and warm adult hearts too.
Queen of Middle Grade Lit in Australia - Nova Weetman - has revisited her protagonist Clem, from her smash-hit MG books ‘The Secrets We Share’ and ‘The Secrets We Keep’ - only this time Clem is going through many upheavals as she enters into Year 8 ... family conflicts, changing bodies, and drifting friendships signpost this time in her life.
Weetman is an absolute master at this gentle and important storytelling that hits right for the 8-12 age-range. Everything Clem goes through is so deeply felt and brilliantly explored in this book full of heart and understanding that centres turbulent times of social and familial upheaval in young people’s lives. And it is the perfect crossover book for those MG-readers just about ready to move into YA.
Queen of Middle Grade Lit in Australia - Nova Weetman - has revisited her protagonist Clem, from her smash-hit MG books ‘The Secrets We Share’ and ‘The Secrets We Keep’ - only this time Clem is going through many upheavals as she enters into Year 8 ... family conflicts, changing bodies, and drifting friendships signpost this time in her life.
Weetman is an absolute master at this gentle and important storytelling that hits right for the 8-12 age-range. Everything Clem goes through is so deeply felt and brilliantly explored in this book full of heart and understanding that centres turbulent times of social and familial upheaval in young people’s lives. And it is the perfect crossover book for those MG-readers just about ready to move into YA.
August 3, 2024
Continuing my current Nova Weetman obsession I have just re-read this book, the third in her Clem Timmins series. The first time I read it I didn’t realise it was about the same character as ‘The Secrets We Keep’. So after re-reading that book and then getting hold of ‘The Secrets We Share’ and reading that, I thought I better read ‘The Edge of Thirteen’ again. Nova Weetman nails those early teenage feels, the drama between friends and the awakening interest in boys. It has been fun watching Clem grow. I was disappointed that Maggie and Matt didn’t reappear in this book, and that the continuity between the end of the second book and this book annoyed me a bit, TSWS ended with Clem getting a loft bed in her new bedroom, no loft bed in TEOT…..grrr. But still gave it five stars as I really loved it. Though I am not the target demographic for this book, I do love middle school fiction.
Read
February 1, 20233.5 stars
The Edge of Thirteen was a very accessible, coming-of-age story for younger teens. The fact it was written by Aussie author, Nova Weetman, was a bonus.
I think many girls could identify with Clem as she battles with new physical, emotional and social changes that come when on the cusp of adolescence. I loved that Clem was nerdy and had a passion for flora but, at the same time, often felt overwhelmed and unsure of herself. As a Teacher Librarian myself, I was thrilled at the positive role the library and librarian played.
Gentle and emotional, The Edge of Thirteen was an honest portrayal of early adolescence which will definitely be popular with tween girls. A sweet read.
The Edge of Thirteen was a very accessible, coming-of-age story for younger teens. The fact it was written by Aussie author, Nova Weetman, was a bonus.
I think many girls could identify with Clem as she battles with new physical, emotional and social changes that come when on the cusp of adolescence. I loved that Clem was nerdy and had a passion for flora but, at the same time, often felt overwhelmed and unsure of herself. As a Teacher Librarian myself, I was thrilled at the positive role the library and librarian played.
Gentle and emotional, The Edge of Thirteen was an honest portrayal of early adolescence which will definitely be popular with tween girls. A sweet read.
November 15, 2025
The book, Edge of Thirteen didn't feel like it suited me ( that's why it's 4 stars ), but anyway, the story's something like a thirteen old girl called Clem who has two best friends, but after meeting them after a long summer break, Clem noticed her friends grew up fast, faster without her. It made her feel left out and makes little lies about it that which turns into bigger problems. The story tells things about changing friendships, puberty, and the pressure to fit in. Clem also forms new friendships and experiences drama at school camp. (ALSO IS A GOOD BOOK FOR GIRLS)
April 14, 2021
This was a really interesting read. I forgot how hard being 13 can be. We start with a scene where Bridge, Ellie and Clem are discussing growing up. Boys, puberty, periods etc. What I found interesting was the comparisons Clem was making and the fact that she felt the need to lie about not having her period yet. This story followd all the ups and downs of teen girls and friendships. Really loved it.
February 28, 2021
What a sweet story The Edge of Thirteen is. I read a fair bit of middle grade and young adult fiction and books like this are rare and very welcome. It’s not purposefully scandalous or shocking or traumatic (sometimes a criticism I have of some children’s/young adult writing). Instead, it is honest and relevant and gentle and at times very beautiful. It’s also an interesting one to review because I often read books for this age group with particular past students or kids in my life in mind as being like the characters or in ‘need’ of reading the story for one reason or another. This time though I could really relate to being a lot like Clem myself as a kid and then of course very like her mum at the age I am now (with teens of ‘my own’). I highly recommend this authentic story about friendship and puberty and coping with change.
March 15, 2021
I devoured this book in one sitting! A gorgeous middle grade novel about navigating the ups and downs of friendship, family and romance as a thirteen year old. The storyline addresses so many teenage challenges - identity, feelings, body changes, technology - in a meaningful and appropriate manner for children still in primary school. I didn't want this book to finish!
April 8, 2021
Nova Weetman can't write a bad book. This is such a great insight into the mind of a young teen and all the turbulence and contradictory emotions they're going through. Kids of the same age will really relate to Clem. Mums of kids the same age will cringe a lot and maybe take a new look at how they engage with their own children.
March 9, 2025
OMG I JUST LOVED THIS BOOK SO MUCH!!
!! CAUTION SPOILERS !!
The drama and twists were absolutely PRICELESS especially when she kissed Tom then found out he was gay...
Anyway, I finished this book really quickly because it was just so good (did I mention that?). It has just the right mix of teenage drama, growing up, and friendships!
The perfect book for me!
<3
!! CAUTION SPOILERS !!
The drama and twists were absolutely PRICELESS especially when she kissed Tom then found out he was gay...
Anyway, I finished this book really quickly because it was just so good (did I mention that?). It has just the right mix of teenage drama, growing up, and friendships!
The perfect book for me!
<3
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews