Please post on your choice of reading in this category. Remember, you are reading like a media specialist, so it is not about your personal likes and dislikes. Include in your post:
a. Audience for whom the book is written
b. Audience to whom it will appeal (might differ from a.)
c. Particular strengths of the book
d. Particular weaknesses of the book
e. Any special considerations (artwork, curriculum links, community values, beliefs espoused, etc)
f. And, in the School Library Journal’s format: Your verdict, supported with details
No plot summaries and no spoilers, please. Failure to follow that rule will result in revocation of your authoring rights, guaranteed!!
Admission by Julie Buxbaum was written and published in the wake of the real life "Operation Varsity Blues" or the "College Admission Scandal," in which wealthy families were discovered to have illegally influenced the admission of their children to certain colleges. This was a breaking news story just a few years ago, and in her novel, Buxbaum seeks to explore the inner-workings of a fictional family that gets caught up in a similar controversy.
ReplyDeleteThis book is written for high school students, particularly juniors or seniors, who will likely be considering the next steps to take in their lives and if that includes college, which college will be the right fit for them. It is a time of great change in many young peoples' lives, and the characters in the story reflect these interests and issues.
Examination of teenage troubles such as relationships, friendships, family, and making decisions for the future will appeal to a wide audience, including parents and families of teenagers, and school guidance or admission counselors. The book could serve as a window of insight for these groups into the thought process of the teenagers they know. Also, due to the fact that this book mirrors a real-life news story that involved many high-profile people including celebrities, Admission may also interest readers who enjoy stories about current events or about famous people.
There are several notable strengths this book possesses: because of the time it has been published, it is very timely. It will provide commentary for readers on stories they see on the news and online, and offer to them a different, more personable perspective. Also, it centers on a topic that will resonate with its core audience of young adults--college admission--and, also to its credit, it does not fixate completely on this subject. There are additional plotlines concerning friends and siblings and student-teacher dynamics. This allows the book to be multi-dimensional, just like its readers.
It could be considered a weakness in the story that not every plotline is wrapped up nicely, if readers are looking for closure or require happy endings out of their books. However, this could also be a strength of the story, serving as a reminder that real life is messy and a story seeking to be realistic can acknowledge that fact as well.
In the end, Admission is a book that encourages high schoolers to not ascribe their worth and value as a person to something external like the school they attend or what others think, and instead prioritize discovering themselves through thoughtful caretaking of their relationships. This is a meaningful message to communicate to young readers.
VERDICT: A timely, relevant perspective on the costs of putting too much weight into any teen's all-too-familiar issues like peer pressure and the opinions of others; a fascinating, personable story to hand to any high schooler grappling with acceptance anxiety--from their dream school or from themselves.
I was so interested to hear how this novel paralleled the news headlines. Thanks for providing insight. This statement resonated with me: In the end, Admission is a book that encourages high schoolers to not ascribe their worth and value as a person to something external like the school they attend or what others think, and instead prioritize discovering themselves through thoughtful caretaking of their relationships. This is a meaningful message to communicate to young readers.
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ReplyDeleteRestart by Gordan Korman.
ReplyDeleteImagine being bullied at school by the school jock, everywhere you look students are dodging and avoiding as the bully walks down the hall. This is what happened at Hiawassee Middle School. When returning from summer vacation Chase Ambrose “the bully” has recovered from an accident, with his arm in a sling he walks through the halls. Two students approach chase, he recognizes from a picture that his mom showed him. “Amnesia” Chase has completely forgotten his past 13 years of his life. Returning to school and remembering nothing, or why kids at school are whispering, turning the other way, and avoiding complete eye contact as Chase is walking down the hall or entering classrooms. Chase has no idea why the other students are reacting the way they are. A do-over, this is what Chase has been given, a chance to make it right with the students he once bullied. Will the students forgive him, or will he remember his past and go back to his old ways? This story is perfect for students who have gone through the pain of being bullied or those who have bullied others. Readers who are in grade 4th grade and up will find something that they can relate to in this story. The strength of this book other than being a book that is hard to put down is that there are a lot of life lessons that can be learned. It is also a great way to see how a change in someone’s life can have a negative or positive impact on others. For younger readers, this book can be confusing until all the characters are established as each main character in the story is talking about Chase from their own point of view.
This book is one that you can curl up next to the fireplace and finish in one evening, it has real-life problems that can be overturned by making the right choices, it also lets the reader have a clear understanding of what amnesia is and what it is like for someone to go through it. Verdict: I would recommend this book to teachers and the 4th and 5th graders at my school. I think there are great lessons to be learned by reading “Restart”
I love the writing style of your post! It's very engaging to start off with a question or imaginary situation that puts the reader right in the action with the book's characters. I hadn't heard of "Restart" until I read your review and I'm now intrigued. When I was in middle school I read the book "Diary of a Teenage Amnesiac" by Gabrielle Zevin and I really liked it, enough to remember it all these years later! I'm sure the draw of the "starting all over" and having no memory will appeal to young adults today like it did to me back then. Also I appreciate how you say the book highlights bullying and righting your wrongs, that elevates the book from one of interest to one of interest and importance. Thanks for sharing!
DeleteKortney, I agree that there is some time at the beginning where the reader has to keep all characters straight in this book. Perhaps a "cast of characters"in the beginning would have been helpful? Restart is a Maud Hart Lovelace nominee.
DeleteWhen I Was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds is about fifteen-year-old Ali Brooks and his two friends Needles and Noodles. The story takes place in Brooklyn and at the center, is a heartwarming story about loyalty.
ReplyDeleteThis book was written for a young adult audience between the ages of 12-15. While it does contain some violence, drug and alcohol references, and sexual content the book minimizes these things as much as possible. They speak about them as to acknowledge that it is a problem in our society but the main characters stay away from these things making it appropriate for this age group.
This book will certainly appeal to that audience (especially boys) and could even entice some older readers as its relevant themes and realistic plot reflect a lot of issues happening in today’s society.
One of this book’s strengths is that it covers so many issues. Things like growing up without a father, homelessness, violence, mental illness, disabilities, and friendships are all happening and spoke about in this book. One of the reasons I liked it so much and why I think kids will gravitate towards it is that it feels so realistic. No one wants to read about the perfect friendship, especially in middle and high school when friendships are ever changing and evolving.
One of this book’s weaknesses is the boxing subplot. To me that storyline was just not finished when the story ended. If you are a reader who likes neat endings, this one might not satisfy you. Additionally, when the book ends you are left with a feeling of wanting more. You become so engrossed with these main characters that you just want to know when the story ends what happens next with them. At this time there is no sequel or plan for a sequel and that might frustrate readers of this book.
It is important to note that the cover of this book is a large picture of a gun. The gun is covered by fabric and while the book includes violence, it is not about violence. The image is captivating and I do think kids will check out this book solely based on the cover but it might cause others to question the books appropriateness especially in a middle school setting.
VERDICT – This fast read about what it truly means to be a friend is sure to be a well-loved and frequently checked out book. From start to finish the characters will win you over and you will fall in love with this story.
This book won the Coretta Scott King John Steptoe Award for New Talent in 2015. According to the ALA website: "About the Coretta Scott King - John Steptoe Award for New Talent
DeleteThe award is established to affirm new talent and to offer visibility to excellence in writing and/or illustration which otherwise might be formally unacknowledged within a given year within the structure of the two awards given annually by the Coretta Scott King Book Awards Committee.
These books affirm new talent and offer visibility to excellence in writing or illustration at the beginning of a career as a published book creator."
The Brave by James Bird
ReplyDeleteThe Brave by James Bird is a coming of age realistic fiction story with just a touch of magic. Collin has never really fit in. He has OCD and is constantly counting numbers, is artistic when his father had always dreamt of him being an athlete, and has gotten kicked out of a number of schools. Yet, when Collin moves to an Ojibwe reservation with his estranged mother near Duluth, Minnesota his definition of normal is challenged. He begins to learn who he truly is. Along the way Collin and his dog Seven meet a number of influential people who help him grow into the person he is to be.
Middle school is a challenging time and this book is perfect for this age group, 9-13. During the middle school years many students are struggling with fitting in and this book is ideal for embracing who you truly are. This book would also appeal to a student who may have a unique aspect about themselves and are struggling accepting it.
The Brave has a number of strengths, the strongest being the number of difficult situations that are woven throughout the story. Each character has some obstacle: mental health, death, divorce, that they are struggling with. James Bird does an excellent job of addressing these situations in a beautiful way and makes it relatable for a number of readers. Another strength of the story is hidden message. Throughout the text certain letters are underlined revealing an inspiring message at the end. This had me extremely intrigued and reading the text closely for fear I would miss one of the hidden clues. Yet, one weakness of this story is how indigenous people are betrayed. I felt that there was a stereotyped woven throughout the text and Collin often referred to aspects of his life as “The Indian way.”
VERDITCT: This is a fast read that will inspire people to accept who they are and overcome their fears. The secret message woven throughout the text will encourage readers to pay close attention to the details.
I did not know there was a MN connection in this book or a secret message to decode at the end! Here is the book trailer: https://youtu.be/iJywKFRTOi4
DeleteThree Keys by Kelly Yang
ReplyDeleteGr 4-7- Mia Tang believes her family has finally arrived on Main Street in their new home in America with the purchase of their own hotel. Mia is excited for the new school year with her best friends and cannot wait to live the American dream by pursing her writing. However, her new teacher does not seem to like her or her writing. Not to mention the political firestorm brewing around proposition 187 dealing with immigration creating social unrest surrounding their new home. Will Mia and her family be able to follow their dreams ? What about their friends who do not have visas or green cards? Just when she thought her family had made it, their world seems to be crashing in on them. This novel forces readers to look at immigration debate from the eyes of the immigrants relating the challenges they face adjusting to life in America. VERDICT: A timely book addressing themes of prejudice, acceptance, family, bravery and courage from the perspective of immigrants. A great choice for upper elementary and middle school readers to gain empathy and understanding regarding the trials faced by those who are new to our country.
Three Keys was a much anticipated sequel! Diane Guerrero's YA novel My Family Divided might pair well with this title.
DeleteGrades 4-8,The award list and honorable mentions for Dusti Bowling's Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus continue to grow with each passing day—and for good reason.
ReplyDelete13-year old Aven was born without arms, and she's a master at living without them. It's having to move across the country, leaving behind the friends she grew up with, and dealing with a new school—not to mention the sideways glances—that she's not prepared for.
It isn't long before Aven meets and strikes up a friendship with Connor, a boy also feeling the strain from being an outcast due to his Terrets Syndrom. They each offer one another the support they didn't know they needed.
Aven's parents are running Stagecoach Pass, an old run-down western-themed amusement park in Arizona. It's here that Aven unlocks some secrets the owner has been hiding for quite some time.
The Verdict: Dusti Bowling intricately weaves this mystery with a window into the lives of kids living with a disability and the inner strength and support of others needed for them to thrive in a sometimes unkind world. A must read.
I just finished reading this one today and LOVED it! I think it would pair well with Bethany Hamilton's biography Soul Surfer.
Delete
ReplyDeleteMacy MacMillan and The Rainbow Goddess by Shari Green
*Winner of the 2018 ALA Schneider Family Book Award, Middle Grade Books category
Gr 4-6--- Resisting change can have an opposite effect. Sixth-grader Macy, does not want things to change. Getting ready to move away from her house just as the wildflowers are blooming is a fitting setting for this novel in verse. Macy liked her life the way it was- just her and her mom and a best friend she could confide in. Now, her mom is getting ready to marry a guy with two energetic kids and she got into a fight with her best friend. Already feeling isolated and sad, her mom told her she had to help the cranky lady next door pack up her books, since she was also just about to move. The neighbor doesn’t know how to sign, her mom is always busy, and the only kid at school that can hold a conversation in sign language is the best friend that isn’t talking to her anymore. All middle grade kids, deaf or hearing, can relate to this all too common feeling of isolation. In these moments of isolation, we are left vulnerable and open our lives up to things that maybe we didn’t notice before. Like, maybe, we live next to another lonely soul that delivers the exact messages we needed, in the form of fresh baked cookies. VERDICT Heartwarming soul food. Easy-reading book in verse, featuring a relatable main character that is Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Highly recommend. --- Jenna Stevens-Royer, 2021
This book was a quick read as it is told in verse! It has mentions of several other books: Les Miserables, Anne of Green Gables, and of course, their school librarian's name was Mrs. Clearly just like the real life school librarian turned author Beverly Clearly. I think this book has the potential to inspire further reading.
DeleteGrades 4-6, or ages 8-12
ReplyDeleteGeorge by Stonewall Award Winner Alex Gino is the touching story of Melissa, a transgender 4th grade girl who everyone knows as George, a boy. This book is universally appealing, smart, and engaging in its storytelling and would appeal to audiences beyond 12 years old.
George knows she is a girl and with the help of her closest friend, Kelly, hopes to show the world. George plans to secure the part of Charlotte in her class’s rendition of Charlotte’s Web. She believes that if her mom and others in the school see her as Charlotte, they will understand that she is a girl and accept her as transgender. George shows strength in its remarkable use of pronouns. It is told from the third-person perspective with the narrator only using the pronouns she/her/hers to tell the story, even though the world interacts with and sees George as a boy. The book also excels at portraying both the cruel nature of children and the well-meaning, but misinformed reactions of peers and family. Many times, his family and friends offer cringe-worthy words of support by reinforcing gender stereotypes such as, "I know you'll turn into a fine young man." The book offers the perspective of a transgender youth, a perspective that despite LGBTQ visibility over the past decade, still remains underrepresented or ignored. This is reflected in one of the more heartbreaking lines of the book where George's mother remarks that while she can handle having a gay child, she simply can't accept her as "that kind of gay."
The reader is in on the secret which makes the story that much more affecting and heartbreaking.
When George finally reveals herself as a girl by playing Charlotte in the school play, it is moving, joyful, and inspiring.
Verdict: This book deals with some heavy and often misunderstood issues such as gender identity in a warm, funny, and informative way. It is a must have for any collection serving upper elementary and middle grade students. Highly recommended, this book will stick with you for years to come. --Kim Loconto, 2021
Sounds like this is an insightful read!
DeleteAfter reading your review and learning more about this story, I'm very intrigued to check it out! I just saw a post today from the author Kyle Lukoff (who was a school librarian before he was an author!), who wrote the children's picture book Call Me Max. It is the story of a transgender boy. Lukoff, who is also transgender, shared an email he had written to a parent who wrote an angry letter to her child's 4th grade teacher after they read Aidan in class. The parent was upset and asked that counselors be deployed to the school and explanations given to all families. Lukoff responded that while he was a teacher counselors were brought in for many things, including mass school shootings, death at the school, etc, and asked if the parent believed a story about a transgender person counted as an equivalent trauma. It was really interesting to read about this battle that can take place because of books, especially when it comes to identity and LGBTQ+ identity. Call Me Max was written as a gentle introduction to the subject of transgender identity for young children and it still provoked an angry reaction. But I think scenarios like this just prove the importance of stories like George, their necessity for validating the identities of children when some adults in their lives may not be doing that for and with them.
DeleteThanks for sharing!
The book Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is about 2 sisters that need to look out for each other after their mom went to jail for cooking meth. They were staying with the mom's boyfriend but now he is on trial and the girls have been moved into a foster home.
ReplyDeleteThis book is written for kids 10 years and up, but I would wait until they were at least in middle school unless they have some similar situation where they can relate to the book. It is pretty hard to read that kids can be treated the way these girls were treated by people that were suppose to protect them.
I think some of the strengths of this book is that the girls were placed in a foster home where they were able to get past their issues and get the help they needed in dealing with their problems. You hear about how hard it can be growing up in foster care and the abuse the happens in them but this story put foster care in a positive light. Another strength in the strength and resilience of the main character and finding her voice to fight and tell her story, so that the sisters can once again come together and fight together. The book was also written so you knew what happened without a lot of details that could traumatize someone.
I guess a weakness may be the scar it leaves on the reader, when they read the tragic story of these 2 girls and they really don't let you know what the verdict of the boyfriend was at the end of the story. Maybe it didn't matter but I would of liked to know that he got what he deserved.
Verdict: Fighting Words dealt with a very tough subject of sexual abuse but it was done in a way that showed a lot of compassion. There were parts that were funny which kept it light. It also had a happy ending, so even though if you are an emotional person, like myself, you may cry but by the end you will be cheering for the girls. I would definitely wait until at lease middle school for this book and more towards the later years of middle school unless it is a topic that a student younger could relate to and handle. It is a very intense topic. -- Katie Stobb, 2021
You can hear Kimblerly Brubaker Bradley talk about here book here: #127 Kimberly Brubaker Bradley - FIGHTING WORDS Unraveled
DeleteThe Yarn
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/127-kimberly-brubaker-bradley-fighting-words-unraveled/id1028877816?i=1000496400049
Here in the Real World, by Sara Pennypacker
ReplyDeleteTo say I loved this book would be an understatement. I LOVED this book and my love makes it hard to be objective in my review. I think what I most enjoyed about the book was the lyric language. The language is sparse at times, almost poetic in nature, with a descriptive flow that draws the reader in to the lives of the main characters. The main characters are two children who each work to create individual imaginary worlds that eventually collide into one. It is a collision that I was drawn into immediately, one that kept my attention throughout the entire narrative of the book and kept me reading at a fast pace, wanting to see how the characters would complete what they had begun. Although the two main characters are very different, I found myself identifying with each of them in some way, and I feel that children (particularly middle school aged children) would feel the same. The books contains a universal appeal that is not bound to a specific class or race.
Although I truly enjoyed (loved) this book, one weakness I found was the addition of a third character that I did not feel really added to the plot line. She felt as if she was a bit of a convenient “add on” to introduce conflict into a story that didn’t really need conflict from an outside character. Conflict could have stayed within the story line itself, without needing an additional person.
VERDICT: Although a “quiet” book, this is one that will appeal to children who have felt as if they are living on the outside of a world that doesn’t accept them for who they are. Children, and in particular middle school aged children, will be able to see themselves in the characters of the book as they work to figure out how they fit and where they fit.
Review by: Joan M. Wolf
If you haven't read her other book Pax, I would also recommend it!
DeletePax was such a wonderful book I would second that nomination!
DeleteDumplin’ by Julie Murphy is a contemporary teen novel about a plus-size girl coming to terms with her ideas of what it means to be desirable and worthy of attention from others. Willowdean “Dumplin’” Dickson has a deep love for Dolly Parton, a former beauty-queen mom who now runs the local pageant, and a recently-deceased aunt who she misses terribly. She also has a crush on her co-worker, Bo, and is shocked when he seems to return her affections. She decides that this year she is going to enter the pageant to show people that big girls can be beautiful too.
ReplyDeleteThis book is written for young adults, but could appeal to anyone beyond that age, because it is relatable on so many levels. Readers will be able to identify with Willowdean’s complicated relationship with her mom, her grief over losing the aunt that helped raise her, and her skepticism about Bo and wondering if he really, genuinely likes her. They will also appreciate her friendships with Ellen, Mitch, Millie, Amanda, and Hannah. Other themes addressed in this book are bullying, overcoming adversity, and body-positivity.
VERDICT: This is a relevant, body-positive novel that will inspire readers to love themselves and appreciate the relationships they have with those around them. A must-have for the library in your high school.
I read this book last winter and loved it! I particularly appreciated how it did not shy away from the awkwardness and hardships of being a plus-sized teenager, while still remaining a comical and light-hearted read.
DeleteI liked the movie staring Jennifer Aniston; I look forward to hearing your book-movie comparison.
ReplyDeletePosted by John David Anderson is a book that will take you back to your middle school days no matter the group or "tribe" you were part of. Our story takes place in Branton, MI focusing on four friends: Frost, Bench, Deedee, and Wolf, making their way through middle school. The arrival of a new girl, Rose, coincides with the banning of cell phones, but this is only the beginning of what is described as “war” throughout the school. Anderson takes us through the back story of how Frost and his “tribe”or group of friends have found each other. Each character’s backstory is told, helping us understand the dynamics of the group, their personal challenges at home and school and of course the root of their nicknames. We also see how introducing a new friend to the group creates divisions, insecurities rise and words are said that can not be taken back. After all cell phones are banned from school the students find other ways to communicate, using the post-it notes that they have in ready supply. It all seems fairly innocent at first, but soon the post-it notes are being used to bully and create as much turmoil as the cell phones and social media ever could. We see the power of words, how they can cause pain but also unite us and help us grow.
ReplyDeleteThis book provides so many themes to focus on, a few are: friendship, bullying, divorce, peer pressure, sexulaity and personal identity. We get to know Frost the best in this book, but each of the main characters is given space in the book so we can understand them and see the group's connections. With the variety of characters- a jock, writer, musician, rebel and “nerd”, there is someone for everyone to connect to. Anderson also is not afraid to explore the real pain and harassment that can happen in middle school, and how much goes on without adults knowledge.
If I had to say there are weaknesses it would be the length and the pace towards the end of the book. It is 384 pages which might stop some readers from picking the book up and the pace to get to the climax makes the last third of the book a little more challenging.
This book is written for ages 10 and up, but with the content I would recommend age 12 and up with some room for discussion about the homosexual slams and some of the other language.
Verdict: Posted is a book that needs to be in middle school or high school libraries. It shows the reader the power of words, how they can bring pain but also strengthen one another. Teenage readers will find themselves connecting with the characters in the book. The message of everyone having a “tribe” is a powerful and important reminder to students that you will find your people.
I also wrote about Posted for this blog! I agree that the pacing is slow, and can be a little bit of a struggle to get through, and that everyone can relate to awkwardness, and search for personal identity in the book. I was a little more harsh in my review, so it's very interesting to hear another person's perspective!
DeleteA book you might pair with this one would be No Talking by Andrew Clements. The kids bet each other who can last the longest in school without speaking. It's a lighter book that would be appropriate for upper elementary and/or middle school.
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ReplyDeleteHere in the Real World by Sara Pennypacker is written for children eight to twelve years old, though it will appeal to older audiences as well. The author has created a story and characters that are engaging and relatable. The message is hopeful and uplifting, while still being grounded in the reality that things don't always work out the way one hopes they will. The chapters are typically only a few pages long, so the book feels like a quick and easy read despite being over 300 pages in length.
ReplyDeleteThere are times that the writing could be a little confusing. For example, there are a few times that the two main characters have conversations where they are talking about two separate topics rather than responding to each other. Also, while the short chapters help make the book an easy read, they can also make some scene changes feel a little abrupt.
VERDICT: Here in the Real World contains important messages about embracing the strengths, values, and interests unique to each person. It also teaches that everyone can do something to help others and make the world a better place, even if it's a smaller help than you would have wished, and that even those smaller ways of helping can make a big difference. This book would be an excellent addition to any middle or high school library.
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DeleteWould you say that the language in this book was something you liked, something you were challenged by, or both?
DeleteOverall, I really liked the use of language in the book. There were just a few times that I had to stop and think about it to make sure I understood. It was mostly in imagining students reading it, especially at the younger end of the recommended age range, that I thought it could make the book challenging. I could see an eight-year-old being confused by some parts of the book.
DeletePosted by John David Anderson
ReplyDeletePosted accurately portrays the difficulties of modern-day bullying in today’s middle schools, constant passive-aggressive conflict through whispers, anonymous posts and nudges in the hall. The book captures the awkwardness of these years well: the tribalism, loneliness and desperation to fit in felt by all. The main character, Frost, embodies the relatable impassive stance many have adapted during these years to “survive”. Anderson does a great job showing how friendships and relationships painfully change during times of transition, under subconscious social pressure, and students search for their identity.
While Anderson captures all of these relatable issues in true-to-life form, the book has its weaknesses as well. The main characters aren’t particularly likeable, and a little hard to root for, and thus keep reading about. The advertised main conflict of the book, (the post-it notes war), is oversold; the plot lacks depth and detail, and seems besides the point of the story, instead of the driving factor, as Frost describes. The link between middle-school life and social media are understated, and not the key theme as often described in reviews.
While this book is marketed towards grades 3-7, as per product details on Amazon, I believe this book is best fit for grades 5-8, as it captures the second-hand embarrassment, cringey awkwardness, and angsty moods of life in middle-school. These characteristics make the book a good middle-school read, but not extremely appealing to early elementary schoolers, or those in grades above. Major themes of the book include bullying, homophobia, being an outcast, the power of words, and a search for identity.
Verdict: Good, but not great. I think in the hands of the right-person at the right-time of their lives, this book could be powerful. However, making it a part of curriculum or pushing the book out as recommended reading would most likely be met with contempt as the “lessons” of the book are a little too preachy, and the second-hand embarrassment can be hard to read through.
I appreciate your honest review Jody. It's true that some books are good, but just not great. I was curious about the reading level, so I looked it up on Titlewave. You are correct in your recommendation for best fit; it is being listed on that site for grades 5-8. If you are interested in reading a more mature (HS) book about teens and social media, you might want to check out Blood Moon.
Delete"Fighting Words" by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
ReplyDeleteTen-year-old Della is known for using her fighting words. At school she is bullied by classmates and scrutinized by staff for picking fights and yelling obscenities. Della is hyper-aware of her use of foul language; in narrating her story she explains that she will be censoring the curse words she uses and replacing them with the term “snow” instead—and readers will find “snow” littered like flakes throughout the pages.
But what few people in her life fail to understand and what readers will come to realize in reading Della’s story, is there is a reason she comes across hostile. Della and her older sister Suki are being pulled through the foster care system, landing in one unsuitable home after the other, wishing but knowing it is impossible for them to go back to living with their mother. From the beginning, Della alludes to a dark occurrence that ripped her family apart, though she is not ready to explain it all right away. Her growing ability to confront the trauma in detail parallels the readers’ growing ability to read it on the page; it is paced well in this way. At the outset readers will have noted the implications, from the cover art and title, that there is some portrayal of abuse.
Because of its difficult subject matter, this book is recommended for audiences around fourth grade and up, and would likely necessitate some adult guidance and discussion. Though with author Kimberly Brubaker Bradley having experienced abuse herself at a young age, the book is aware of and in many ways written for young people and children who have also suffered in this way. It offers resonance and validation for the fear and anger that stems from trauma. It ultimately depicts positive change in the form of self-empowerment and restorative familial love. Adults who work with children who have experienced abuse, such as school counselors, may also find this book to be a great vehicle for connection.
The strengths of this novel are personified in the strength exhibited by Della and her sister. They are girls who are shown in their messy, dark, confused, lashing-out moments, and remain incredibly resilient by showing up for one another time and time again. They are coming to an awareness about the abuse they have suffered and are beginning to process it in a mature way, while also not letting it dominate their lives—they continue on getting new jobs and making new friends. The Newbery Medal was awarded to this book for its raw depiction of trauma, consent, bravery, family, and healing.
VERDICT: A courageous story about overcoming abuse to come into empowerment, this may be one of the most important books to include in any collection for young readers.
One idea with book is to include a label on the inside cover with contact information to a local mental health resource. That way if readers need to reach out because of their real life experiences, they have a place to start.
ReplyDeleteFighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is a book about Della and Suki, sisters who have to learn to navigate the world of foster care, after being victim to several traumatic events.
ReplyDeletePenguin Random House, the publisher, says this book was written for 6th grade and higher. On Goodreads, Brubaker Bradley says that students as young as 4th grade could read this book. Due to the graphic content and strong language, I would suggest that anyone younger than 12 years old read this book with adult guidance. I suggest this because it eventually comes out that the sisters have experienced abuse. This content could be triggering for some readers, especially younger ones who do not have the experience processing trauma.
This book has several strengths. Brubaker Bradley's voice and personal experiences shine through in this novel. My favorite part of the novel is the courage and bravery shown by the sisters. While not necessarily a negative, as mentioned above, the content and language may not be suitable for all readers.
This novel has won several awards, including the School Library Journal Best Book of the Year and Boston Globe Best Book of the Year.
Verdict: I believe this book belongs on every library shelf. It encourages bravery, courage, and speaking up for oneself.
~Zoe
I agree with you Zoe, the adult recommending the book should be aware of the student's age and background as this book may contain some triggers for those who have been abused.
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