American Girl has several books that might help - aimed at young middle schoolers.

Mean as in clique or mean as in saying mean things just to your DD? I always say if it is just one girl or two, look into what is behind. Everytime my DD complained about a mean girl, and I even saw that the girl was mean to my DD in front of me, I later found out that situation at home was difficult. Alcoholic and abusive Dad, or mom with mental illness, so I am now very careful to judge. I am, by no means saying, that having issues at home is an excuse for mean behavior, just that they are kids and don't know how to cope.

I'd love recommendations for boys - our son is in a very cliquey class.

Odd Girl Out.

Odd Girl Out.

For parents:
Queen Bees and Wannabes: Helping Your Daughter Survive Cliques, Gossip, Boyfriends, and the New Realities of Girl World

My fifth grade DD is starting to be affected by some mean girls at school.

Any recs for books or other resources that will help?

Thanks!