Welcome back to our Bestie Book Club—a community for book lovers from Girls’ Life magazine.

If you’re new here, hello! Here’s how this works: Each month, we read, discuss and obsess over a new book. If you haven’t already, be sure to follow us on TikTok and Instagram for Bestie Book Club updates, fun reading challenges, amaze giveaways and so much more!

It’s that time of year again: when the back-to-school energy fades and your life becomes a whirlwind of assignments, practices and plans. Before you sink into a stress spiral (been there!), we’re giving you some lit-inspired tips for bringing back some balance—c/o Stella from our latest read, Why Is This So Easy For You?.

After her smarts and on-pointe ballet skills earn Stella a scholarship at an elite private school, she suddenly has to navigate new friends, a budding crush and world of entitled girls. On top of all that, her family tree project reveals a long-hidden truth about her past. Luckily, Stella learns some amazing lessons along the way—ones that will inspire you to take control of your own fast-paced schedule.

We sat down with our book besties to get the scoop on Why Is This So Easy For You? plus their tried ‘n’ true tips for juggling school, sports and everything in between.

Hey, Besties! What did you love most about Why Is This So Easy For You?

“I just moved to a new city, so I’m trying to find my own identity and where I fit in at school. Stella was going through the same thing. I could really relate to her worries.” —Parker S. 

“Stella’s struggles as a biracial girl stood out to me. My dad is African American, and my mom is Salvadorian. I always felt like I was never ‘Latina enough’ or ‘Black enough.’ Seeing representation always gets me in my feels.” —Kiarra B.

“Stella’s busy schedule is so real. I’m always trying to do it all, too. I see a lot of myself in her.” — Riley A.

Find yourself forgetting about your history essays ’til the night before? Missing the deadlines to reply to the English discussion board? Cure the classroom chaos by getting organized once and for all. (Ahem, no more scribbling random reminders in the margins of your notes.)

Investing in a planner—and *actually* making a habit to check it every day—is the best way to stay on track. Stickers, gel pens and highlighters make your cal even cuter (and way more fun to update!). If you’re not a pen and paper gal, a digital planner works, too. Try downloading a calendar template from Canva (you can personalize it with stickers and your fave font).

Another way to stay accountable with your schoolwork? Setting a recurring study date with your besties/lab partners/lunch crew. Meet in the library every Thursday during free period to swap outlines or run through flash cards.

If you’re anything like Stella from Why Is This So Easy For You?, a group project isn’t exactly your idea of fun…but studying with a squad is a surefire way to boost your A+ ambitions.

Hey, Besties! Do you have an after-school routine? 

“I love to reset and eat some of my favorite snacks. Then, I lock in on my homework before ending my night with some TV time.” —Kiarra B.

“I usually scroll through my phone for a bit before I tackle my HW and head to practice. It’s a much-needed break!” — Riley A.

“I have cheer practice immediately after school. Then, I usually FaceTime with friends about classes, makeup or outfit ideas.” —Parker S.

There’s no denying that extracurriculars are time-consuming. But are you packing your days with practices and meetings because you genuinely love what you do? Or because it makes your parents and coaches happy?

If you’re truly passionate about your hobbies (like Stella is about ballet in Why Is This So Easy For You?), go get ’em girl. But if you’re realizing that cheer practice is actually draining your pep, it might be time to take a step back. Ask yourself if your current lineup aligns with your interests, mental health and future goals. That doesn’t mean you have to quit altogether, but an honest chat with your teacher/mentor/mom might be in order.

Bottom line? What you do outside of school should enhance your life—not drag it down.

Hey, Besties! What’s the toughest part about your extracurriculars?

“The busy days when I don’t have time to do other things for myself, like read or watch Netflix.” —Kiarra B.

“Sometimes, I’m so tired from a long school day that the thought of *another* meeting stresses me out.” —Parker S. 

“It’s hard when I’m stuck at practice while all my friends are hanging out! Cue the FOMO.” — Riley A.

You and your bestie started the school year with a giant bucket list of hangouts: Football games! Matcha runs! Sleepovers! But between your impossible math class and her family commitments, you’ve checked off…basically none of them.

Just like Stella from Why Is This So Easy For You?, we know you’re a busy bee. And finding quality time with your besties on top of all your to-do’s is tough. But what if we told you that your stacked cal can actually help fuel your friendships?

OK, we know what you’re thinking—it’s a little hard to catch up with your besties while scoring the winning goal on the soccer field. But hear us out: Traveling out of state for a tournament? FaceTime your BFF in the car for a pre-game pep talk. Stuck watching your little sis on Saturday night? Ask your gals if they want to join you for a princess movie marathon.

With a little planning in advance and a little creativity, your friendships will be absolutely thriving—just like Stella’s and Liza’s.

Hey, Besties! What’s your favorite way to catch up with your friends after a busy week?

“FaceTime calls! My best friend doesn’t live close to me anymore, so it’s the only way we get to chat!” —Parker S. 

“Late-night texting and weekend movie nights just hit different after a stressful week at school.” — Riley A.

“I love to have a ‘nothing day’ with my friends, where we can hang out with no set plans.” —Kiarra B.