The Baby-Sitters Club is Back
I remember it like it was yesterday, the day Ann M. Martin walked into my life and introduced me to the girls who would eventually revolutionize my world. The series taught us about friendships, boy problems, and divorce, but more importantly we were invited to explore the idea of female entrepreneurship.
The first novel, “Kristy’s Great Idea” carried an inspiring message, that might have subconsciously stuck with many of us. Kristy notices her family is struggling, but because of her young age finding a job isn’t going to be a simple task. Instead of giving up hope, she devises a plan that will benefit her financially, as well relieve some of her mother’s stress. And with the help of her friends, The Baby-Sitters Club is born. As many of us enter our late twenties, it might be beneficial to think back on this empowering idea of creating our own career. Naturally, in the real world it’s not so simple to just whip up a self supporting career, but it’s not so far fetched either.
Unfortunately, as the decades go by, young girls are becoming more infatuated with the internet and reality TV, leaving our favorite babysitting squad in the dust. Instead of teaching the importance of having your own money, supporting oneself, & female independence, they’re learning about marrying rich like the Kardashians and the Hiltons.
However, we all know this lifestyle isn’t very much of a reality for the majority, especially during this time of economic downfall. Many families need their teens to work, but due to high unemployment rates and child labor laws, the options tend to be scarce.
Luckily, as the 25th anniversary of the BSC approaches, Ann M. Martin decided it was time to re-introduce a whole new generation to the girls. Naturally, times have changed since the original series, so the books have been updated to include contemporary references to things like fashion, technology, media etc. But, the story lines, and underlying message will still remain the same, hopefully influencing a whole new generation of young girls.
The really great thing about this re-introduction is it gives many parents, who are original BSC fans, to share the beloved series with their kids. Because of the 2010 makeover, instead of rolling their eyes at the “retro” books, they will (hopefully) find the series relatable.
As I wrote this post, it got me thinking that the BSC characters might have had a little bit of riot grrrl inside of them. But that is for another day…
What do you think about the re-introduction of the BSC? How did they influence or impact your life?
