Right there with you--dd11 (turns 12 in November) is skipping 6th and starting in 7th at the 6-8 middle school in August. I don't know of any overview--but I do think a kid who is pretty well-grounded can have a good experience.
I panicked for a second when I remembered how mean the girls were in 7th grade--but I think in my case it was because I was in the "popular" group. I don't think that the girls who were not in that group had the same negative experiences. Thankfully my dd could care less and really seems to be comfortable with who she is. I feel like she will be able to make friends in orchestra, in the academic bowl, in the drama club who she has stuff in common with. And maybe I am wrong, but I just don't remember the nerdy (nerdy in a good way!) theatre/band kids being mean to each other.
I like Rosalind Wiseman's approach to girl relationships/bullying if it were to become an issue.
James Webb has a good article somewhere on depression in gifted kids that (from what I remember) ended up being hopeful. I personally think that they are old enough to understand Dabrowski's TPD, and to understand that if they have angst it can serve a purpose.
I also really feel like re: self-esteem that a sport or activity that they are passionate about and can increase their competence through dedication and persistence and hard work is the key.
Very interested in hearing more.
My sweet dd. 5th grade graduation ceremony is tonight...she still has her AG dolls set up in her room and she still teaches them school and will be starting 7th grade in the blink of an eye. I shudder to think of what I was doing in 7th grade! (She is very mature but does still love her dolls--and I can't blame her, I would still like to play with them too!)
Anyway, thanks for bringing this topic up.
