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Bad Influence
A powerfully real and funny new story from the rising queen of teen, about first kisses, learning to be true to yourself and how one click can last for ever... Amelia Bright wants to be the best at everything. But when it comes to popularity, she is dead last. No matter what she tries, she can't shake her reputation as a maggoty nobody. When she meets cute new boy Evan, Amelia wonders if he can help her lose her loser status. And in a moment of hope, she agrees to something she quickly regrets - something that goes viral at school. Now she's not just called "maggot", she's a "bad influence" - and worse. But Amelia's determined not to let one mistake define her...she's so much more than the image everyone sees online.
284 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 8, 2023
42 people are currently reading
262 people want to read
About the author
Tamsin Winter
7 books170 followers"Tamsin Winter is fast becoming a favourite for younger teenagers, chronicling those first years at secondary school with warmth and honesty."
- The Observer
Tamsin Winter grew up in a tiny Northamptonshire village where she spent her childhood reading books and writing stories. She studied English Literature and Creative Writing at university, and has taught English at secondary level for many years.
Her award-winning novel, Being Miss Nobody (Usborne Publishing) tells the story of eleven-year-old Rosalind who can't speak. The book tackles themes of bullying, anxiety and social media in a fresh, funny and compelling voice and recently won the Awesome Book Award 2019. Tamsin's second novel, Jemima Small Versus the Universe is a bold, funny, heartwarming novel dealing with big themes of weight-related bullying, body-shaming and, most importantly, learning to be happy with who you are. It was Children's Book of the Month in The Guardian and has recently been shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2020.
- The Observer
Tamsin Winter grew up in a tiny Northamptonshire village where she spent her childhood reading books and writing stories. She studied English Literature and Creative Writing at university, and has taught English at secondary level for many years.
Her award-winning novel, Being Miss Nobody (Usborne Publishing) tells the story of eleven-year-old Rosalind who can't speak. The book tackles themes of bullying, anxiety and social media in a fresh, funny and compelling voice and recently won the Awesome Book Award 2019. Tamsin's second novel, Jemima Small Versus the Universe is a bold, funny, heartwarming novel dealing with big themes of weight-related bullying, body-shaming and, most importantly, learning to be happy with who you are. It was Children's Book of the Month in The Guardian and has recently been shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
December 23, 2023
i am a lot of things but in my core i am and will always be a tamsin winter fan
if tamsin winter has one fan, it's me
if she has none, i'm dead
live, laugh, love tamsin winter
if tamsin winter has one fan, it's me
if she has none, i'm dead
live, laugh, love tamsin winter
December 20, 2023
Trigger warnings: bullying, body shaming, online sharing of explicit photos without consent, toxic relationship
3.25 stars
I wanted to love this because I really enjoy the way that Tamsin Winter writes contemporaries for the 13-14 year old end of the young adult market. But there was just something about the way this played out that didn't sit right with me.
So essentially, it's about a 13 year old girl who's been bullied for the past two years at school. And then a new boy starts at school and he's interested in her. He pressures her to send him nudes, which then get shared around the school.
I think my problem was predominantly with the fact that the bullying - which was happening IN CLASS IN FRONT OF TEACHERS ON A DAILY BASIS - hadn't been dealt with at ALL. Like, that kind of stuff is really fucking obvious to school staff. Like, if the bullying was almost all happening online or outside the classroom? Fine. I'd buy it. But kids literally calling her Maggot and hurling abuse at her in the classroom and teachers do nothing? WTF.
Anyway. I also didn't entirely gel with the title - too much of the story felt like build up and not enough focus on the aftermath to warrant the title. So ultimately, I liked what it was trying to do, but it felt like 80% build up and the way off wasn't worth it for me.
3.25 stars
I wanted to love this because I really enjoy the way that Tamsin Winter writes contemporaries for the 13-14 year old end of the young adult market. But there was just something about the way this played out that didn't sit right with me.
So essentially, it's about a 13 year old girl who's been bullied for the past two years at school. And then a new boy starts at school and he's interested in her. He pressures her to send him nudes, which then get shared around the school.
I think my problem was predominantly with the fact that the bullying - which was happening IN CLASS IN FRONT OF TEACHERS ON A DAILY BASIS - hadn't been dealt with at ALL. Like, that kind of stuff is really fucking obvious to school staff. Like, if the bullying was almost all happening online or outside the classroom? Fine. I'd buy it. But kids literally calling her Maggot and hurling abuse at her in the classroom and teachers do nothing? WTF.
Anyway. I also didn't entirely gel with the title - too much of the story felt like build up and not enough focus on the aftermath to warrant the title. So ultimately, I liked what it was trying to do, but it felt like 80% build up and the way off wasn't worth it for me.
June 21, 2023
A powerful and timely book. It’s sad that this story is both realistic and necessary but that is the world we now live in.
The blurb and the first chapter make it pretty clear what is going to happen and the bulk of the story is the run up to those events. I was gripped throughout but slightly wanted to skip to the denouement. But the rest of the story is vital. It shows all that Amelia has to go through. It allows other characters like Hannah and Nisha to be developed more fully. It allows us to see the other side of Evan (though I wondered throughout whether he was just an arch manipulator!) It allows us to see who Amelia really is: all that should define her rather than what nearly defines her.
I’m sure there’s more I could say but I’ve stayed up reading this far later than I should have done!
As a school librarian I love seeing how the library is a place of safety for Amelia…though I have a few issues with the way the librarian is depicted!! I’ll certainly be recommending this to my students.
Very grateful to Usborne for sending me a free copy of this…though I’d ordered it as well before that arrived!!
The blurb and the first chapter make it pretty clear what is going to happen and the bulk of the story is the run up to those events. I was gripped throughout but slightly wanted to skip to the denouement. But the rest of the story is vital. It shows all that Amelia has to go through. It allows other characters like Hannah and Nisha to be developed more fully. It allows us to see the other side of Evan (though I wondered throughout whether he was just an arch manipulator!) It allows us to see who Amelia really is: all that should define her rather than what nearly defines her.
I’m sure there’s more I could say but I’ve stayed up reading this far later than I should have done!
As a school librarian I love seeing how the library is a place of safety for Amelia…though I have a few issues with the way the librarian is depicted!! I’ll certainly be recommending this to my students.
Very grateful to Usborne for sending me a free copy of this…though I’d ordered it as well before that arrived!!
June 15, 2023
As poignantly heartfelt as it is uplifting, Tamsin Winter’s newest novel skilfully delves into the all too real and heartbreaking realities of peer pressure and social media on teens.
It follows thirteen year old Amelia Bright, a book loving music prodigy who, in a effort to become popular (and amid a ton of peer pressure) shares a photograph she shouldn’t with a boy she trusts. A photo that leads to disastrous consequences when it goes viral, thus causing model student Amelia to be branded a “Bad Influence”. But she’s not ready to let this is one mistake define her and will stop at nothing to share her side of the story.
This was such an emotional story that does explore some pretty relevant issues that, though uncomfortable, definitely need to be discussed more.
As someone who hit my teen years during the start of social media (with MySpace, Facebook and Twitter) where viral video trends such as happy slapping saw teens humiliated in even more devastating ways online than ever before. So I understand how bad peer pressure can get. I can’t imagine how much worse it must be now, with soo much more of our lives revolving around social media and being online.
Which is probably why Amelia, our optimistic, cinnamon roll of a protagonist inspired such a strong emotional response. I can definitely see a lot of younger teen readers identifying with Amelia and the challenges she has had to endure.
Like her previous book Girl In Real Life, I really enjoyed the nuanced and realistic portrayal of Amelia’s parents and the dynamics they face in co-parenting children whilst divorced. It was also great to see a compassionate and caring portrayal of Selina (Amelia’s dad’s girlfriend) that didn’t once branch into the (overused and stereotypical) evil stepmother trope.
This is only the second book of Tamsin Winter’s that I’ve read but her ability to delve into contemporary teen experiences, getting to the heart of relevant issues— in both a convincing and easily accessible manner is why she’s quickly become one of my favourites in the YA/ Children’s fiction genre. If you love Coming of age stories with a powerful message, then you definitely need to read this!
Also, a huge thank you to Netgalley and Usborne for the e-arc.
It follows thirteen year old Amelia Bright, a book loving music prodigy who, in a effort to become popular (and amid a ton of peer pressure) shares a photograph she shouldn’t with a boy she trusts. A photo that leads to disastrous consequences when it goes viral, thus causing model student Amelia to be branded a “Bad Influence”. But she’s not ready to let this is one mistake define her and will stop at nothing to share her side of the story.
This was such an emotional story that does explore some pretty relevant issues that, though uncomfortable, definitely need to be discussed more.
As someone who hit my teen years during the start of social media (with MySpace, Facebook and Twitter) where viral video trends such as happy slapping saw teens humiliated in even more devastating ways online than ever before. So I understand how bad peer pressure can get. I can’t imagine how much worse it must be now, with soo much more of our lives revolving around social media and being online.
Which is probably why Amelia, our optimistic, cinnamon roll of a protagonist inspired such a strong emotional response. I can definitely see a lot of younger teen readers identifying with Amelia and the challenges she has had to endure.
Like her previous book Girl In Real Life, I really enjoyed the nuanced and realistic portrayal of Amelia’s parents and the dynamics they face in co-parenting children whilst divorced. It was also great to see a compassionate and caring portrayal of Selina (Amelia’s dad’s girlfriend) that didn’t once branch into the (overused and stereotypical) evil stepmother trope.
This is only the second book of Tamsin Winter’s that I’ve read but her ability to delve into contemporary teen experiences, getting to the heart of relevant issues— in both a convincing and easily accessible manner is why she’s quickly become one of my favourites in the YA/ Children’s fiction genre. If you love Coming of age stories with a powerful message, then you definitely need to read this!
Also, a huge thank you to Netgalley and Usborne for the e-arc.
December 13, 2023
This is truly a minging book, it’s horrible a total seizure to read the amount of bad writing is amazing, Amelia is a sensitive little bitch, it’s really life threateningly bad, the jokes it makes are unfunny as hell, it’s horribly crafted and not important to be made, big stupid vibe and not smart, unthoughtprovoking, an unnecessary book throwing shade over this new generation, a complete unrealistic book, Amelia is actually realistic, but makes me hate her character, the internet isn’t realistic in this book, I hate how she constructed all the the characters, and oh my what a plot twist Evan is a bad guy? But he isn’t!!! I truly hate Amelia and will not be reading anymore of tamsins work, WOULD NOT RECOMMEND TO ANYONE WHO ISNT UNDER THE AGE OF 4!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2023
Bad Influence is a funny, bold and vital read for teens, teachers and parents alike. Original, engaging and full of humour it also has an insightful and important message.
December 9, 2023
Unrealistic social media and unrealistic characters. Why is everyone so unrealistically good in this book? The only likeable characters are Selina and Ju-Long. Everybody I know wants Amelia dead. Amelia is a whiney and ungrateful character, and she only digs herself a deeper hole for being bullied. Despite complaining about being bullied, she takes no action to prevent it. Also, what the hell is the line "her boobs felt bigger"? Why was that needed? Actual shit.
July 12, 2024
A family member handed me this book thinking I might enjoy it.
They were wrong.
Bad Influence is about how a 13-year-old girl who’s picked on and bullied at school meets a cute boy at baseball practice who pressures her into sending explicit pictures which are later shown among her school and other schools. Amelia is called Maggot by everyone in her year except her best friend, Nisha. When Amelia finds out that this cute boy, Evan, is going to her school, she desperately wants to impress him. And sure, this is something a bunch of 13 year old girls go through, but this book did not do a good job of portraying this. There was no character development as only Amelia too quickly developed at the end by completely viewing herself in the opposite way she had before. The way she’d viewed herself originally—ugly, unattractive, charisma-lacking—was how she viewed herself for a good 350 pages. Then suddenly she changes.
This book could’ve been shorter, 370 pages was not worth reading. Less time spent with Evan, less time going over how she looked like, less time at baseball. Evan made me so angry as well as Amelia’s dad.
(Spoilers in this Paragraph) Evan felt fake, 2D. He had “feelings” for Amelia, but wasn’t brave enough to show that among his friends. If you can’t do that, something’s wrong. Either you’ve made the wrong friends or you don’t actually like her. He was like so interested in Amelia one second, then completely ignored her the next. Sure, this happens in actual relationships, but it felt too drastic of a change. Who shows a nude picture of someone you like to your friends to convince them that they’re better than your friends think? Beauty is not everything.
Amelia’s dad felt way too consumed with baseball; it seemed he preferred the sport over his daughters. He was way too hard on Amelia in everything, too brutally honest. I think part of parenting is knowing not to be so honest your kid feels like they’re being pushed under all the time and needing to impress someone.
And last but not least, Amelia is constantly bullied, called “Maggot” and classified as ugly. The bullying happens IN FRONT OF THE TEACHERS IN THE CLASSROOM. How do the teachers not notice it at all? How does no one pull any of the classmates aside and tell them off for that?
1.5 stars. not a book worth reading.
They were wrong.
Bad Influence is about how a 13-year-old girl who’s picked on and bullied at school meets a cute boy at baseball practice who pressures her into sending explicit pictures which are later shown among her school and other schools. Amelia is called Maggot by everyone in her year except her best friend, Nisha. When Amelia finds out that this cute boy, Evan, is going to her school, she desperately wants to impress him. And sure, this is something a bunch of 13 year old girls go through, but this book did not do a good job of portraying this. There was no character development as only Amelia too quickly developed at the end by completely viewing herself in the opposite way she had before. The way she’d viewed herself originally—ugly, unattractive, charisma-lacking—was how she viewed herself for a good 350 pages. Then suddenly she changes.
This book could’ve been shorter, 370 pages was not worth reading. Less time spent with Evan, less time going over how she looked like, less time at baseball. Evan made me so angry as well as Amelia’s dad.
(Spoilers in this Paragraph) Evan felt fake, 2D. He had “feelings” for Amelia, but wasn’t brave enough to show that among his friends. If you can’t do that, something’s wrong. Either you’ve made the wrong friends or you don’t actually like her. He was like so interested in Amelia one second, then completely ignored her the next. Sure, this happens in actual relationships, but it felt too drastic of a change. Who shows a nude picture of someone you like to your friends to convince them that they’re better than your friends think? Beauty is not everything.
Amelia’s dad felt way too consumed with baseball; it seemed he preferred the sport over his daughters. He was way too hard on Amelia in everything, too brutally honest. I think part of parenting is knowing not to be so honest your kid feels like they’re being pushed under all the time and needing to impress someone.
And last but not least, Amelia is constantly bullied, called “Maggot” and classified as ugly. The bullying happens IN FRONT OF THE TEACHERS IN THE CLASSROOM. How do the teachers not notice it at all? How does no one pull any of the classmates aside and tell them off for that?
1.5 stars. not a book worth reading.
July 24, 2023
I enjoyed this book and would give it three stars!
PROS-
- I loved Hannah, Selina and Nisha, they were supportive of Amelia throughout and gave her some really good advice
- The build up to the photo being sent
- Amelia felt realistic as a teenager and had problems that most teens can relate to
- The speech Amelia gave at the end was really good
- The portrayal of the incident (the incident being the photo) was done well
- I think that this is my second favourite of Tamsin Winter’s books (I think Being Miss Nobody is still my favourite)
CONS-
- It wasn’t really explained why Evan pressured Amelia to send him the photos. The explanation of what he did with it and why was done well, but the reason why he pressured Amelia so heavily wasn’t given
- I probably would have preferred it if the photo sending happened earlier on in the book (but this doesn’t bother me as much)
Overall, I liked this book!
PROS-
- I loved Hannah, Selina and Nisha, they were supportive of Amelia throughout and gave her some really good advice
- The build up to the photo being sent
- Amelia felt realistic as a teenager and had problems that most teens can relate to
- The speech Amelia gave at the end was really good
- The portrayal of the incident (the incident being the photo) was done well
- I think that this is my second favourite of Tamsin Winter’s books (I think Being Miss Nobody is still my favourite)
CONS-
- It wasn’t really explained why Evan pressured Amelia to send him the photos. The explanation of what he did with it and why was done well, but the reason why he pressured Amelia so heavily wasn’t given
- I probably would have preferred it if the photo sending happened earlier on in the book (but this doesn’t bother me as much)
Overall, I liked this book!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2023
Amelia Bright is a lovely young girl with a ‘Bright’ future ahead of her. However, she feels immense pressure from her peers and suffers from severe bullying and name calling on a daily basis. One day Amelia does something that will change what everyone thinks of her forever which yields a multitude of results.
Tamsin Winter is an incredible writer and clearly has an insight into the lives of young people. In fact, I was so impressed by this insight as well as terrified by it, that I contacted and had a short chat with her about it.
You see, I have two nieces and the things I read in this book scared me. I also had a hard time at school so I could relate to many things in the book. However, when I was at school social media and the internet were not part of our daily lives. I’m thankful for that (Tamsin also mentions this in her Letter From The Author). My two nieces and perhaps my future children though will indeed experience some of these issues. This book really does provide insight. What it’s like to be a young person, trying to fit in, being knocked back at every turn, have everyone hate you for no reason. It also explores what it’s like when you meet someone outside of all that, what a first romance is like. As well as peer pressure. It shows us that instant messaging and social media add a whole new dimension to these issues. One which should be taken seriously. Tamsin Winter is a teacher I believe and this really shines through. She is a woman who has a clear understanding of the workings of young minds and I’m so thankful for this.
I think anyone who has a young person in their lives should read this book. The events of this book have actually happened to people out there. It’s good to know more about these issues, what the laws are and how people are likely to react. I’d highly recommend for this alone.
However, I also absolutely could not put this book down. Tamsin Winter writes Ameila so well and effectively. I was absolutely rooting for her the whole way through. I was fond of her, even proud of her at parts as she reminds me of my own nieces at times. This also meant I was utterly heartbroken for her a times and just wanted to comfort her. The book even reduced me to tears and I’m a 35 year old man! Well done Tamsin, this is written so well and I’m so glad I picked it up.
On that note I actually initially picked it up when researching books for my youngest niece, (my usual books are horror/science fiction or fantasy epics) and have already bought her a copy. I hope she will also learn from Ameila like I did.
Beautiful book about a beautiful person who makes a mistake, but in the process not only her but everyone learns from it. To end with a quote mentioned in the book which I love:
‘Tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet’ - Anne of the Gables (which I’ve not read, perhaps I should).
Tamsin Winter is an incredible writer and clearly has an insight into the lives of young people. In fact, I was so impressed by this insight as well as terrified by it, that I contacted and had a short chat with her about it.
You see, I have two nieces and the things I read in this book scared me. I also had a hard time at school so I could relate to many things in the book. However, when I was at school social media and the internet were not part of our daily lives. I’m thankful for that (Tamsin also mentions this in her Letter From The Author). My two nieces and perhaps my future children though will indeed experience some of these issues. This book really does provide insight. What it’s like to be a young person, trying to fit in, being knocked back at every turn, have everyone hate you for no reason. It also explores what it’s like when you meet someone outside of all that, what a first romance is like. As well as peer pressure. It shows us that instant messaging and social media add a whole new dimension to these issues. One which should be taken seriously. Tamsin Winter is a teacher I believe and this really shines through. She is a woman who has a clear understanding of the workings of young minds and I’m so thankful for this.
I think anyone who has a young person in their lives should read this book. The events of this book have actually happened to people out there. It’s good to know more about these issues, what the laws are and how people are likely to react. I’d highly recommend for this alone.
However, I also absolutely could not put this book down. Tamsin Winter writes Ameila so well and effectively. I was absolutely rooting for her the whole way through. I was fond of her, even proud of her at parts as she reminds me of my own nieces at times. This also meant I was utterly heartbroken for her a times and just wanted to comfort her. The book even reduced me to tears and I’m a 35 year old man! Well done Tamsin, this is written so well and I’m so glad I picked it up.
On that note I actually initially picked it up when researching books for my youngest niece, (my usual books are horror/science fiction or fantasy epics) and have already bought her a copy. I hope she will also learn from Ameila like I did.
Beautiful book about a beautiful person who makes a mistake, but in the process not only her but everyone learns from it. To end with a quote mentioned in the book which I love:
‘Tomorrow is a new day with no mistakes in it yet’ - Anne of the Gables (which I’ve not read, perhaps I should).
July 23, 2023
Amelia Bright is an intelligent and ambitious young girl who seems to have it all going for her … except that for some reason everyone in school dislikes her and she has somehow attained the nickname ‘Maggot’. After the publication of The List on social media which places Amelia at the bottom of all the girls in her year, she is determined to make people like her, no matter the cost.
This story follows Amelia in her attempt to gain popularity - sadly falling into the trap of thinking that she is the one who isn’t good enough. She tries to improve her popularity online by posting TikTok’s and she is excited to see her ‘like’ count slowly rising but it doesn’t seem to change anything. Until Evan comes along. A boy who seems to like her for who she is, the boy she shares her first kiss with and the boy she hopes will elevate her from the bottom of the list. Until she shares a private image of herself and things escalate beyond her control.
I both loved and loathed this story. I love it for the simple fact it is bringing such a poignant issue to the forefront. As a high school teacher I know how frequently young people are finding themselves in Amelia’s position. I loathed it because it made me feel desperately sad for Amelia. That she had such a low opinion of herself and seeing how it all panned out.
Both Amelia and Evan’s characters reflect how truly complex it is to be a teenager in our current social climate. The pressure from peers both in person and even more so online is astronomical and leads so many young people to make disastrous choices without understanding both the immediate and long term consequences.
I loved Amelia as a character and the dynamic with her older sister Hannah. Whilst Hannah is everything Amelia wishes to be, I thought they had a really lovely relationship. It is also refreshing to see a book with divorced parents who are able to coparent effectively with their children at the forefront of their decision making.
I would highly recommend reading the Letter from the Author at the end of the novel which is a reminder to all readers that whilst this story is fiction, it is sadly the reality for many teenagers today.
Thank you to Usborne, Tamsin Winter and NetGalley for my early review copy in exchange of a fair and honest review.
This story follows Amelia in her attempt to gain popularity - sadly falling into the trap of thinking that she is the one who isn’t good enough. She tries to improve her popularity online by posting TikTok’s and she is excited to see her ‘like’ count slowly rising but it doesn’t seem to change anything. Until Evan comes along. A boy who seems to like her for who she is, the boy she shares her first kiss with and the boy she hopes will elevate her from the bottom of the list. Until she shares a private image of herself and things escalate beyond her control.
I both loved and loathed this story. I love it for the simple fact it is bringing such a poignant issue to the forefront. As a high school teacher I know how frequently young people are finding themselves in Amelia’s position. I loathed it because it made me feel desperately sad for Amelia. That she had such a low opinion of herself and seeing how it all panned out.
Both Amelia and Evan’s characters reflect how truly complex it is to be a teenager in our current social climate. The pressure from peers both in person and even more so online is astronomical and leads so many young people to make disastrous choices without understanding both the immediate and long term consequences.
I loved Amelia as a character and the dynamic with her older sister Hannah. Whilst Hannah is everything Amelia wishes to be, I thought they had a really lovely relationship. It is also refreshing to see a book with divorced parents who are able to coparent effectively with their children at the forefront of their decision making.
I would highly recommend reading the Letter from the Author at the end of the novel which is a reminder to all readers that whilst this story is fiction, it is sadly the reality for many teenagers today.
Thank you to Usborne, Tamsin Winter and NetGalley for my early review copy in exchange of a fair and honest review.
December 21, 2023
AMELIA is a Bright – that’s her surname, but she’s also really bright and has a desire to pursue her talents and get far in life. In her cello playing, she is close to a prodigy, and she’s aiming to become vice-captain of the debate club. The problem is she’s a thirteen-year-old ginger with lots of freckles who is called ‘Maggot’ at school, laughed at and psychologically bullied by her peers on a constant basis. It’s heartbreaking to read her story, even though it’s fiction, because I know that such bullying does occur in schools nowadays - made even worse by social media.
Bad Influence takes us on Amelia’s journey of bullying and how she puts her heart, soul and everything she has into trying to gain acceptance with the popular crowd even though she has a special friend in Nisha and if she looks hard enough, support from her family, too. In her pursuit of acceptance, she makes a mistake she can’t take back which sends her into intense conflict with everyone around her. In the story, you will discover what led her to that point and how she handles it.
I loved everything about this book. It was funny, raw, real and gripping. Even though teenage fiction isn’t a genre I usually read, I could not put this book down. I was so invested in Amelia’s life which was presented in a well-rounded and detailed way. The author made us feel all her feels, and they were intense at times. Yet, believable. Sometimes, I wanted to take her aside and speak to her about her low self-esteem and how it was causing her to make foolish choices, but what I loved so much was her character arc and how she learned and grew through her struggles. I loved the secondary characters, too, as they weren’t flat and 2D but rather fun and broke stereotypes.
The book highlights the injustice of bullying and also the dangers of modern cyberbullying and how something you send/post online is in the public forever and can never be retracted. It’s a scary thought but very real. It shows how someone can rise above rejection and harshness, even from family members, and believe in themselves. I believe this book is so important for young people to read and written so well that it will keep them gripped the whole way. - Kathy Bosman 5/5 stars
Bad Influence takes us on Amelia’s journey of bullying and how she puts her heart, soul and everything she has into trying to gain acceptance with the popular crowd even though she has a special friend in Nisha and if she looks hard enough, support from her family, too. In her pursuit of acceptance, she makes a mistake she can’t take back which sends her into intense conflict with everyone around her. In the story, you will discover what led her to that point and how she handles it.
I loved everything about this book. It was funny, raw, real and gripping. Even though teenage fiction isn’t a genre I usually read, I could not put this book down. I was so invested in Amelia’s life which was presented in a well-rounded and detailed way. The author made us feel all her feels, and they were intense at times. Yet, believable. Sometimes, I wanted to take her aside and speak to her about her low self-esteem and how it was causing her to make foolish choices, but what I loved so much was her character arc and how she learned and grew through her struggles. I loved the secondary characters, too, as they weren’t flat and 2D but rather fun and broke stereotypes.
The book highlights the injustice of bullying and also the dangers of modern cyberbullying and how something you send/post online is in the public forever and can never be retracted. It’s a scary thought but very real. It shows how someone can rise above rejection and harshness, even from family members, and believe in themselves. I believe this book is so important for young people to read and written so well that it will keep them gripped the whole way. - Kathy Bosman 5/5 stars
June 3, 2023
BE AWARE: this book contains the non consensual sharing of a photo of a thirteen year old girl wearing a see through bra. There is also some kissing and over the clothes touching.
I love Tamsin Winter. Girl (in real life) was one of my favourite books of 2021, and I've been looking forward to this one. Tamsin seems to have a line straight into the minds of teenage girls, and she knows how to present it in a way that's clear and easy to follow without being patronising.
Much like Tamsin, I am always grateful that I grew up (::cough::just::cough::) before social media was a thing. Puberty is tricky enough without having all your failings immortalised for everyone to look at forever, as happens here to Amelia. As often happens, from our position outside the story, it's easy to see what's happening - with her father, with the bullying and with Evan - but Tamsin makes it easy to sympathise with Amelia, too, and to understand why she takes the actions she does. (No spoilers, but I very nearly cheered at a certain scene near the end!) There are a few scenes that are difficult to read, just because of the subject matter, but it's such a good read I got past that.
If we're lucky, this book will spark a few conversations and maybe make a few people rethink their actions and behaviours. It absolutely should be in every classroom, read and discussed in book clubs, and ideally part of the school curriculum - it's that important and that well written. Just a fabulous read all around, I really enjoyed it, and I tore through it in a day!
I will read anything Tamsin produces; Girl has a special place in my heart, but this is very nearly unseating it.
(And, in an amusing coincidence, the Irish Gardai have just started a new campaign to make sure people are aware that threatening to spread intimate images is a crime, just as this book is publishing! Hopefully between the two we get some conversations going around this very touchy and misunderstood topic.)
Absolutely brilliant. I love it.
I love Tamsin Winter. Girl (in real life) was one of my favourite books of 2021, and I've been looking forward to this one. Tamsin seems to have a line straight into the minds of teenage girls, and she knows how to present it in a way that's clear and easy to follow without being patronising.
Much like Tamsin, I am always grateful that I grew up (::cough::just::cough::) before social media was a thing. Puberty is tricky enough without having all your failings immortalised for everyone to look at forever, as happens here to Amelia. As often happens, from our position outside the story, it's easy to see what's happening - with her father, with the bullying and with Evan - but Tamsin makes it easy to sympathise with Amelia, too, and to understand why she takes the actions she does. (No spoilers, but I very nearly cheered at a certain scene near the end!) There are a few scenes that are difficult to read, just because of the subject matter, but it's such a good read I got past that.
If we're lucky, this book will spark a few conversations and maybe make a few people rethink their actions and behaviours. It absolutely should be in every classroom, read and discussed in book clubs, and ideally part of the school curriculum - it's that important and that well written. Just a fabulous read all around, I really enjoyed it, and I tore through it in a day!
I will read anything Tamsin produces; Girl has a special place in my heart, but this is very nearly unseating it.
(And, in an amusing coincidence, the Irish Gardai have just started a new campaign to make sure people are aware that threatening to spread intimate images is a crime, just as this book is publishing! Hopefully between the two we get some conversations going around this very touchy and misunderstood topic.)
Absolutely brilliant. I love it.
November 21, 2024
Reading this was like watching a train crash happening in slow motion, and induced that same feeling of nausea and dread at the sickening inevitability of what was going to happen. Amelia's struggles with bullies and low self-confidence were devastating, and I just wanted her to listen to her BFF Nisha or confide in her big sister Hannah about what was happening before it was too late. (Yes, I cried.)
But considering the author is a teacher herself, I was shocked by the way the bullying is never addressed by the teachers at Amelia’s school??? It’s not even hidden or subtle -- the other students are literally calling Amelia “Maggot” in class and shouting it in the corridors, and there are other incidents that made me wonder what the teachers were smoking because they were SO oblivious.
Thankfully, the humour balanced the grim stuff. I loved the quirky writing, and Amelia’s voice was perfect. Her little quips made me laugh out loud. (The bit where her teacher is sarcastic and she internally comments that schools should have a complaints department alsdkfj omg il her.) I also loved the side characters in this, especially Selina. I wanted to see way more of Selina on page, she was perfect. And so was Amelia’s mum for teaching her daughters to be kind and not hate ~the other woman~ or look down on Selina for having fake tan/nails/boobs etc.
Also idk who was responsible for the title/tagline/blurb but it is so misleading??? Amelia gets called a bad influence ONCE (not even to her face, she hears it second hand) around 90% into the book (page 343 out of 374 in my paperback!) and it is barely a part of the plot at all?? From the way this was marketed, I expected The Photo to be the start of a slippery slope of Amelia doing worse stuff and living up to the whole ~bad influence~ reputation, not a heartbreaking story about the consequences of bullying. Which, cool, whatever, I liked the story -- but it's not what I thought I would be reading.
But considering the author is a teacher herself, I was shocked by the way the bullying is never addressed by the teachers at Amelia’s school??? It’s not even hidden or subtle -- the other students are literally calling Amelia “Maggot” in class and shouting it in the corridors, and there are other incidents that made me wonder what the teachers were smoking because they were SO oblivious.
Thankfully, the humour balanced the grim stuff. I loved the quirky writing, and Amelia’s voice was perfect. Her little quips made me laugh out loud. (The bit where her teacher is sarcastic and she internally comments that schools should have a complaints department alsdkfj omg il her.) I also loved the side characters in this, especially Selina. I wanted to see way more of Selina on page, she was perfect. And so was Amelia’s mum for teaching her daughters to be kind and not hate ~the other woman~ or look down on Selina for having fake tan/nails/boobs etc.
Also idk who was responsible for the title/tagline/blurb but it is so misleading??? Amelia gets called a bad influence ONCE (not even to her face, she hears it second hand) around 90% into the book (page 343 out of 374 in my paperback!) and it is barely a part of the plot at all?? From the way this was marketed, I expected The Photo to be the start of a slippery slope of Amelia doing worse stuff and living up to the whole ~bad influence~ reputation, not a heartbreaking story about the consequences of bullying. Which, cool, whatever, I liked the story -- but it's not what I thought I would be reading.
June 1, 2023
Thirteen-year-old Amelia Bright is incredibly intelligent and determined – she’s a star baseball player, an eloquent debater and a gifted cellist. But there’s one thing Amelia is not good at - popularity. It all started in Year 7 when a boy mocked her for her pale skin and called her ‘Maggot’ and the name stuck. When new boy, Evan, joins her baseball team he doesn’t know about her social status and it seems that he likes her. If Amelia can just prevent him from finding out about the ‘maggot’ thing, perhaps he will ask her to be his girlfriend and then all the popular kids will miraculously forget all the horrible things they used to say about her.
But Amelia discovered something worse than being called a ‘Maggot’ when she makes a mistake and her picture gets shared online with the whole school.
Tamsin Winter is brilliant at exploring the social pressures facing young teenagers and the issue of sexting and sharing nudes is increasingly affecting teens of all ages. This book is also an insightful look into the way that parents and teachers often don’t know how to react to this issue and can get it wrong. Sharing what has happened to her with adults is obviously the first and very important step, but Amelia also has to advocate for herself and come to terms with what has happened.
‘Bad Influence’ is a humorous and empowering read about the realities of being a teenager in today’s world of social media - essential reading for young teens. Definitely one I’ll be recommending in the school library!
But Amelia discovered something worse than being called a ‘Maggot’ when she makes a mistake and her picture gets shared online with the whole school.
Tamsin Winter is brilliant at exploring the social pressures facing young teenagers and the issue of sexting and sharing nudes is increasingly affecting teens of all ages. This book is also an insightful look into the way that parents and teachers often don’t know how to react to this issue and can get it wrong. Sharing what has happened to her with adults is obviously the first and very important step, but Amelia also has to advocate for herself and come to terms with what has happened.
‘Bad Influence’ is a humorous and empowering read about the realities of being a teenager in today’s world of social media - essential reading for young teens. Definitely one I’ll be recommending in the school library!
September 2, 2024
"𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝙸'𝚕𝚕 𝚗𝚎𝚟𝚎𝚛 𝚖𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚖𝚒𝚜𝚝𝚊𝚔𝚎 𝚘𝚏 𝚋𝚎𝚝𝚛𝚊𝚢𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚖𝚢𝚜𝚎𝚕𝚏 𝚊𝚐𝚊𝚒𝚗. 𝙽𝚘𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚊𝚗𝚢𝚘𝚗𝚎 𝚌𝚊𝚗 𝚜𝚊𝚢 𝚠𝚒𝚕𝚕 𝚙𝚞𝚝 𝚖𝚎 𝚘𝚏𝚏 𝚖𝚢 𝚐𝚊𝚖𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎."
Bad Influence is a young adult read that will resonate with many teenagers. Bullying is an important topic that is dealt with, and being bullied in high school myself, my heart broke for Amelia. I could relate to many of the scenarios and feelings she experienced.
I feel the bad influence comes from the bullies, from unrealistic expectations set by family and teachers. It comes from outside criticism that breaks you down until all you are, are the negative words of others.
Amelia is such a bright character, but her light was dimmed by insecurities, by living in her sister's shadow and trying to meet her father's unrealistic expectations in baseball. I think many teenagers/young adults have experienced this or something similar and might find some strength in Amelia's character.
Other topics included are online presence and doing things to feel accepted. The author also highlights that mistakes happen, but they don't define you.
Bad Influence is a book that teens need to read. It will be an eye opener and give them that boost they need, that encouragement of you're good enough.
If you're a fan of Holly Bourne, this book is perfect for you!
✨️ Cello
✨️ Bullying
✨️ Family dynamics
✨️ Young Adult
✨️ Self acceptance
✨️ Music
✨️ Baseball
Many thanks to @#penguinrandomhousesa and @penguinbooksyasa for gifting me a copy of this book.
Bad Influence is a young adult read that will resonate with many teenagers. Bullying is an important topic that is dealt with, and being bullied in high school myself, my heart broke for Amelia. I could relate to many of the scenarios and feelings she experienced.
I feel the bad influence comes from the bullies, from unrealistic expectations set by family and teachers. It comes from outside criticism that breaks you down until all you are, are the negative words of others.
Amelia is such a bright character, but her light was dimmed by insecurities, by living in her sister's shadow and trying to meet her father's unrealistic expectations in baseball. I think many teenagers/young adults have experienced this or something similar and might find some strength in Amelia's character.
Other topics included are online presence and doing things to feel accepted. The author also highlights that mistakes happen, but they don't define you.
Bad Influence is a book that teens need to read. It will be an eye opener and give them that boost they need, that encouragement of you're good enough.
If you're a fan of Holly Bourne, this book is perfect for you!
✨️ Cello
✨️ Bullying
✨️ Family dynamics
✨️ Young Adult
✨️ Self acceptance
✨️ Music
✨️ Baseball
Many thanks to @#penguinrandomhousesa and @penguinbooksyasa for gifting me a copy of this book.
March 2, 2024
Warning: Bullying,Bodyshaming,Language,Online sharing of photos without consent
I really wanted to give this book more than 3.5 stars but i couldnt ,because there was a few things i coudnt understand.
The book is basically about a girl who is really unpopular who meets a guy she fancies , and he seems to like her back. After a bit , he pressures her into nudes which the whole school finds out about.Here are the things I couldnt work out :
1. WHAT ARE THE TEACHERS DOING ??!! Like people are literally shouting bad language and maggot,throwing maggots on her , and the teachers are literally there, and they do NOTHING.ABSOLUTELY NOTHING .Like COME ON . They way they dealt with it was not right at all so ...
2..This was very unrealistic ,i know its a book but its about what young teens might face , and it was not realistic.So what happens is that Amelia decides to give a speech because 'I wont let one mistake define me ' . In all honesty , the speech was great , but then she doesnt get a criminal fine for breaking a law . And literally EVERYONE forgetts what happened .After the speech , everyone just carried on like nothing happened. That would DEFINITELY NOT happen in real life , im sorry. But yeah that all i have to say.
I really wanted to give this book more than 3.5 stars but i couldnt ,because there was a few things i coudnt understand.
The book is basically about a girl who is really unpopular who meets a guy she fancies , and he seems to like her back. After a bit , he pressures her into nudes which the whole school finds out about.Here are the things I couldnt work out :
1. WHAT ARE THE TEACHERS DOING ??!! Like people are literally shouting bad language and maggot,throwing maggots on her , and the teachers are literally there, and they do NOTHING.ABSOLUTELY NOTHING .Like COME ON . They way they dealt with it was not right at all so ...
2..This was very unrealistic ,i know its a book but its about what young teens might face , and it was not realistic.So what happens is that Amelia decides to give a speech because 'I wont let one mistake define me ' . In all honesty , the speech was great , but then she doesnt get a criminal fine for breaking a law . And literally EVERYONE forgetts what happened .After the speech , everyone just carried on like nothing happened. That would DEFINITELY NOT happen in real life , im sorry. But yeah that all i have to say.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 20, 2023
I really felt for Amelia throughout the book - with pressure to be perfect in every aspect of her life, from academics, her music, and living up to her dad's extremely high expectations, to trying so hard to be liked in school.
The extent of Amelia's bullying was really difficult to read, and I was just wishing she would tell someone!
I'm sure many of us have been in a similar situation with a boy as Amelia, desperately wanting to impress, and not knowing where you stand is all too relatable, something I think Tamsin captured perfectly. So, whilst I was frustrated at her at times, my heart broke for her as the story unfolded with Evan.
That being said, there were some wonderful relationships in this story. I loved her friendship with Nisha, her sisterly bond with Hannah, and seeing her connect more with Selina.
Overall, a very enjoyable read, highlighting some really important issues, with a heartwarming ending.
The extent of Amelia's bullying was really difficult to read, and I was just wishing she would tell someone!
I'm sure many of us have been in a similar situation with a boy as Amelia, desperately wanting to impress, and not knowing where you stand is all too relatable, something I think Tamsin captured perfectly. So, whilst I was frustrated at her at times, my heart broke for her as the story unfolded with Evan.
That being said, there were some wonderful relationships in this story. I loved her friendship with Nisha, her sisterly bond with Hannah, and seeing her connect more with Selina.
Overall, a very enjoyable read, highlighting some really important issues, with a heartwarming ending.
May 20, 2023
I just want to start off by saying that if I could give this book 6 stars I would!
Bad Influence is a story about a girl called Amelia. Every Saturday, her dad forces her to play baseball. Every week she dreads it until she meets the new boy on the team, Evan Palmer and Amelia's life starts to take a turn for the better and for the worse all at once!
This book blew me away. I loved the level of detail that Tamsin Winter put into this book, and how thoroughly she thought this all through. This truly shows the story of how one mistake can truly change your life forever, in more ways than you can imagine.
This book shows us through Amelia's difficult time at school and shows the consequences of peer pressure, especially when you so desperately just want to be liked.
I loved this book and definitely recommend it to everyone!
Bad Influence is a story about a girl called Amelia. Every Saturday, her dad forces her to play baseball. Every week she dreads it until she meets the new boy on the team, Evan Palmer and Amelia's life starts to take a turn for the better and for the worse all at once!
This book blew me away. I loved the level of detail that Tamsin Winter put into this book, and how thoroughly she thought this all through. This truly shows the story of how one mistake can truly change your life forever, in more ways than you can imagine.
This book shows us through Amelia's difficult time at school and shows the consequences of peer pressure, especially when you so desperately just want to be liked.
I loved this book and definitely recommend it to everyone!
November 9, 2025
It was a good book. Amelia went on a really emotional journey. Good for teens who are new to the romance world.
I’d give it like a 2/10 spice level mainly because there wasn’t much detail during their intimate moments. I however didn’t like there wasn’t a a long time period of what happened after Amelia had made her speech. I kinda wanted to know what happens when she sees Evan afterwards. So basically there’s this girl who get’s called maggot for the past 2 years cuz of her skin colour. She wan’t to make a change of her popularity status. She thinks that if she dates Evan Palmer she’ll get what she wants. He likes her too but asks her for nudes and it ends up going viral. She never trusted him again which is probably deserved. In the end she makes a speech, people clap, she closes her eyes, the end. There was a bit of an epilogue but it was mostly a huge build up.
I’d give it like a 2/10 spice level mainly because there wasn’t much detail during their intimate moments. I however didn’t like there wasn’t a a long time period of what happened after Amelia had made her speech. I kinda wanted to know what happens when she sees Evan afterwards. So basically there’s this girl who get’s called maggot for the past 2 years cuz of her skin colour. She wan’t to make a change of her popularity status. She thinks that if she dates Evan Palmer she’ll get what she wants. He likes her too but asks her for nudes and it ends up going viral. She never trusted him again which is probably deserved. In the end she makes a speech, people clap, she closes her eyes, the end. There was a bit of an epilogue but it was mostly a huge build up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 25, 2023
This started out light middle grade - and devolved into HORROR about sexting!
Poor Amelia Bright is not a cool kid and, in a desperate bid for popularity, does something that she will regret forever.
There were so many nasty kids and ineffectual parents and teachers in this book. It's about bullying, and the permanence of online mistakes, and was thought provoking to read (who knew that sending a photo of yourself as a person under the age of consent actually makes YOU, the victim, a child pornographer? YIKES!)
But lots to talk and think about, so I will be looking for other of this author's books.
(Trigger warning for me - the dad is a total prick!)
Poor Amelia Bright is not a cool kid and, in a desperate bid for popularity, does something that she will regret forever.
There were so many nasty kids and ineffectual parents and teachers in this book. It's about bullying, and the permanence of online mistakes, and was thought provoking to read (who knew that sending a photo of yourself as a person under the age of consent actually makes YOU, the victim, a child pornographer? YIKES!)
But lots to talk and think about, so I will be looking for other of this author's books.
(Trigger warning for me - the dad is a total prick!)
May 31, 2023
I like Tamsin Winter’s books. Jemima Small is a particular favourite. This is another great book from her. At times it was hard to read, but that’s because it rings so true. School is hard and the ‘popular kids’ never seem to have much about them, apart from the ability to look down on others. Amelia is clever, hardworking and talented-all the wrong things at school. When she comes at the bottom of a list rating the girls it knocks her confidence and she desperately wants to win the approval of her peers. A good-looking new boy takes an interest in her and it seems as though she may be able to gain that approval. But things go horribly wrong. It was uncomfortable to read at times, particularly as an adult, because you know where the story is heading. Tamsin really seems to be able to get under her characters skins and I could really feel the teenage me responding to them. A timely reminder of the dangers of social media and sharing things you don’t want others to see.
August 15, 2024
13-year-old Amelia Bright is a cello prodigy, highly intelligent, and very kind. Yet a rude name at school taunts her, and she's desperate to get into the popular group. When getting a boyfriend may help her break through to this, Amelia will go very far - too far, in fact - to get what she wants. But what she wants is not actually what she needs...
I don't have words!! This was incredible, and dealt so tenderly with issues regarding social media and teen romance. Can't recommend enough.
I don't have words!! This was incredible, and dealt so tenderly with issues regarding social media and teen romance. Can't recommend enough.
June 14, 2025
changed my review after thinking about it more...
he pressured her sm yet she said that he didn't??? the teachers didn't do anything about the bullying but tbf alot of schools do that but usually schools at least pretend to care? also the nickname maggot doesn't make any sense seeing as she has 'fiery' red hair... adding to that in normal schools she wouldn't be picked on for being ugly (based on her description and the book cover) because she looks normal... and surely the popular people like DJ (who aren't very smart) would want to copy off of Amelia and therefore be nice to her and just talk about her amongst them? Amelia's speech at the end was good and I liked that alot at first but I feel like the teachers would probably stop her from talking about other students and the police and stuff when she was on that stage or that they would speak to her beforehand and say that it's confidential and she can only talk about it with her parents. I also think that DJ at the end would be more like DJ throughout the whole thing realisitcly with only a few mentions of cruel nicknames etc. i love tamsin winter I just think she couldve made it more realistic as talked about above.
he pressured her sm yet she said that he didn't??? the teachers didn't do anything about the bullying but tbf alot of schools do that but usually schools at least pretend to care? also the nickname maggot doesn't make any sense seeing as she has 'fiery' red hair... adding to that in normal schools she wouldn't be picked on for being ugly (based on her description and the book cover) because she looks normal... and surely the popular people like DJ (who aren't very smart) would want to copy off of Amelia and therefore be nice to her and just talk about her amongst them? Amelia's speech at the end was good and I liked that alot at first but I feel like the teachers would probably stop her from talking about other students and the police and stuff when she was on that stage or that they would speak to her beforehand and say that it's confidential and she can only talk about it with her parents. I also think that DJ at the end would be more like DJ throughout the whole thing realisitcly with only a few mentions of cruel nicknames etc. i love tamsin winter I just think she couldve made it more realistic as talked about above.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2025
Barely anyone was likeable. Maybe Nisha, Selena, and the elder sister (can't remember her name) were likeable. Highly doubt kids would get away with calling a girl 'Maggot' on a regular basis, and I don't believe that they would get away with throwing maggots at said girl either. If anything, the whole 'Maggot' thing would die in about a week. But since this is fiction....
2 stars. I'm being generous because there were moments I did like.
2 stars. I'm being generous because there were moments I did like.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2023
A VERY real exploration of bullying as well as the pressures on young people to share nude or seni-nude photos of themselves and the devastating consuquences that all too often follow.
Amelia's struggle is both heartbreaking and empowering by the end. A must read for young girls in their early teens.
Amelia's struggle is both heartbreaking and empowering by the end. A must read for young girls in their early teens.
March 23, 2024
I truly connected to this book. Having experienced my own bullying similar this this I felt I could truly sympathise with this character. I hate Evan!!!Although he wanted people to see her from his perspective he went about it the completely wrong way. He played with her feelings as well as sharing a private moment.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2024
The author takes her time to set the plot, and when the climax arrives she dosent develop the story as well.
As a parent and teacher it really upsets me to read how little the parents and the teachers knew of what was going on with their child/student. Also, the Dad's high standards really got on my nerves.
As a parent and teacher it really upsets me to read how little the parents and the teachers knew of what was going on with their child/student. Also, the Dad's high standards really got on my nerves.
May 21, 2023
This book is so important for people to read, beautiful written with a powerful message. The humour is spot on and despite being on an extremely heart wrenching journey as you read it I found myself feeling cleansed after. Thought provoking and funny this is a must read 💙
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