Thursday, March 12, 2020

A Very Large Expanse of Sea by Tahereh Mafi

Title: A Very Large Expanse of Sea
Author: Tahereh Mafi
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: October 16, 2018

Format: Hardcover
Price: $18.99
Page Count: 320 pages
ISBN-13: 9780062866561

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: Muslim teenager Shirin keeps to herself after the events of 9/11, when no one looks at her with kind eyes, until she meets Ocean.

Plot and Content Summary: As a Muslim girl going to school in the United States after the events of 9/11, Shirin is tired of the rude stares and comments from people who pass her on the street. Her hijab causes people around her to play into the negative stereotypes they choose to believe, but they do not even know her. Shirin has learned to ignore everyone, putting all her energy into break-dancing after school. But when she meets Ocean in class, things start to change. He is not pretending to be kind to her—he actually cares for her as a human being.

Evaluation: Right from the start, it was easy to see things from Shirin's point of view. Mafi writes from her own experience, and it is sad to see how broken our world is. However, there are gems like Ocean. Ocean sees Shirin for who she really is, and wants to get to know her. When he visits her family, he admits there are things from her culture that he does not know—but he is willing to learn. Shirin is not perfect either, but she is willing to own up to her mistakes. Mafi does so well at creating cute moments without it being too cheesy or over the top. Shirin's story was told in such a simple but effective way. It was heartbreaking how she has learned to just expect people to be mean to her because of how she looks, but she also realizes that she was also treating people poorly too. She owns up to her mistakes, which is something we all need to work at.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: Due to the events of 9/11, Shirin faces a lot of discrimination because she is Muslim. Like Shirin, many others do too. Would teens read this book and recognize that everyone is a human being, and no one deserves to be treated just for the things they wear or the culture they come from. For teens who feel just like Shirin, I hope you find someone like Ocean. Not necessarily a romantic relationship, but an ally who is supportive and seeks to know the best in you.

Issues Present: If A Very Large Expanse of Sea were to be challenged or banned, it would be for islamophobia (or racism and/or discrimination). Those who challenged The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini stated that it would "promote Islam" (Gomez, 2018), which I assume would be applied in this case as well. However, this is a book that does not talk about religion much—the focus is on a girl who happens to be Muslim. A Very Large Expanse of Sea encourages everyone to love people and treat them with kindness, no matter how they treat us back. If you take the time to read this book and look at the overall message, you would see this.

Book Talk Ideas: "I was so raw from repeated exposure to cruelty that now even the most minor abrasions left a mark ... I never knew—I had no way of knowing—Are you racist? Or are you just having a bad day?" (p. 110)

  • Describe Shirin's personality. How does this differ/look the same as how you view others?
  • How does Shirin's parents affect her struggle? (p. 13)
  • What are the dynamics between Shirin and her brother, Navid, and how do they look at the world differently? (p. 107)
  • How does Ocean change the way Shirin views others?
  • Discuss Shirin and the way her feelings about people change through the course of the novel. (p. 110, 123, 277, 309)

"If maybe, just maybe, I'd been so determined to not be stereotyped that I'd begun to stereotype everyone around me." (p. 110)

Genre/Subgenres: Realistic fiction; Contemporary romance

Readalikes: Love, Hate, & Other Filters by Samira Ahmed, Saints and Misfits by S. K. Ali, The Lines We Cross by Randa Abdel-Fattah

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Wednesday, March 11, 2020

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli

Title: Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda
Author: Becky Albertalli
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Publication Date: April 7, 2015

Format: eBook
Price: $10.99
Page Count: 336 pages
ISBN-13: 9780062348692

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Lexile: HL 640L
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: Simon has been happily exchanging e-mails with an anonymous boy from school, but things change when classmates Martin finds out and blackmails him.

Plot and Content Summary: Because Simon forgets to log out of his e-mail account at the school library, Martin finds his letters to Blue, an anonymous classmate. Since Simon has not come out as gay yet, Martin decides to blackmail him. If Simon introduces him to the girl he likes, Simon's friend Abby, he will keep the e-mails a secret. Simon really does not want to do this, but he also does not want to ruin his relationship with Blue. As Simon works on setting Abby and Martin up, he becomes more intimate with Blue.

Evaluation: Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda received a lot of coverage and advertisement when it first came out, and I am happy to say that it is as good as everyone says it is! It was very cute, with an excellent depiction of the high school experience. This book is told in Simon's perspective, so we get to see the world from his mind. He has quite the personality, often making jokes as a teenager would. Simon's family plays a big role in his life—much of what his parents do embarrass him, as expected—but they all have so much love for each other, and Simon's family supports him no matter what. Simon's situation does not get resolved right away, which shows a realistic look at how complicated life can be.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: Sharing any type of private secret to the public is difficult, and Simon was not able to make that decision himself. For teens who are figuring out who they are, like their sexual identities, having the fear of coming out before being ready is valid. Teens who have friends who are feeling this way can support and encourage them, but know when to not push their boundaries.

Issues Present: If Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda were challenged or banned, it would probably be for LGBTQ+ content. As stated in my entry for You Know Me Well by Nina LaCour and David Levithan, this book can help people come to terms with who they are and be a source of hope.

Book Talk Ideas: 

  • Was Martin a bad person? Do you think Simon should have treated him any differently toward the ending?
  • Simon was outed before he was able to make his own decision to come out. Do you think he reacted in a justified way? Why or why not? (p. 196)
  • How is Simon supported by his family and friends?

Genre/Subgenres: Coming-of-age stories; LGBTQ+ fiction; Realistic fiction

Readalikes: Fan Art by Sarah Tregay, You Know Me Well by Nina LaCour and David Levithan, Anything Could Happen by Will Walton
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Tuesday, March 10, 2020

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas

Title: The Hate U Give
Author: Angie Thomas
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Publication Date: February 28, 2017

Format: Hardcover
Price: $18.99
Page Count: 464 pages
ISBN-13: 9780062498533

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Lexile: 
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: Starr witnesses her best friend, Khalil, being murdered by a white police officer.

Plot and Content Summary: It feels like Starr lives two different lives—the first is with her peers at her predominantly-white private school; the second, with her friends and family in her mostly black, poor neighborhood. When she sees her best friend, Khalil, shot by a white police officer, Starr's two lives come together as she grapples with the truth of what happened. She is scared to speak out and attract attention, but she knows it would be wrong to stay silent.

Evaluation: An incredibly important book shedding light on the #BlackLivesMatter movement. Thomas writes in a very teen-friendly, conversational tone, making it easy to understand and enjoy. Although the topics presented in The Hate U Give are dark, it is balanced well with funny moments and sweet family conversations. While the story develops because of Khalil and the police officer, we also learn a lot about Starr and her family—the struggles they face, what family really means, and how they support each other.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: Although scared, Starr uses any platform she has to bring truth to Khalil's case. It is not easy to stand up for something you believe in, especially as a young person, but Starr knows it is important. For teens who need strength to speak out on big issues, The Hate U Give can be an encouragement.

Issues Present: The Hate U Give was "banned and challenged because it was deemed "anti-cop," and for profanity, drug use, and sexual references" ("Top Ten Most Challenged Books Lists," n. d.).

There have been so many unarmed black men—some teenagers—in the United States who have been killed by police brutality: Trayvon Martin, Philando Castile, etc. Khalil died a fictional death, but these men did not. This is what is happening in our world, and The Hate U Give is meant to open our eyes.

Book Talk Ideas: "I always said that if I saw it happen to somebody, I would have the loudest voice, making sure the world knew what went down. Now I am that person, and I'm too afraid to speak." (p. 34)

  • Why do you think Thomas chose "The Hate U Give" as the title for this story? (p. 17)
  • How does Starr's confidence change when she witnesses the death of Khalil? (p. 34)
  • "Sometimes you can do everything right and things will still go wrong. The key is to never stop doing right." (p. 154) What do you think this quote means?
  • How does Starr's family influence the decisions she makes?
  • Discuss the following quote: "What's the point of having a voice if you're gonna be silent in those moments you shouldn't be?" (p. 252)

Genre/Subgenres: African American fiction; First person narratives; Realistic fiction

Readalikes: Dear Martin by Nic Stone, Tyler Johnson Was Here by Jay Coles, Amelia Westlake Was Never Here by Erin Gough, The Truth of Right Now by Kara Lee Corthron

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Monday, March 9, 2020

A Heart in a Body in the World by Deb Caletti

Title: A Heart in a Body in the World
Author: Deb Caletti
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Publication Date: September 18, 2018

Format: Hardcover
Price: $18.99
Page Count: 368 pages
ISBN-13: 9781481415200

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Lexile: HL 680L
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: Annabelle decides to runs from Seattle to Washington, D. C. to escape her grief and trauma, but unknowingly becomes a beacon of hope.

Plot and Content Summary: After Annabelle goes through a tragedy she feels guilty for causing, she makes an impulsive decision to run across the country—from her hometown in Seattle to Washington, D. C. While her grandpa follows her in his RV, Annabelle gains lots of encouragement from her friends and family, who set up an online support page for her. Slowly, everyone around the United States start to notice her, and they all cheer her on. But Annabelle feels broken inside, still unsure what she's to do in D. C. when she arrives. As we follow her on her run, we are given puzzle pieces of what really happened to Annabelle—and it all comes together as a life-changing story in the end.

Evaluation: A Heart in a Body in the World is one of the most heartbreaking and hard-hitting stories I have ever read. Caletti did an incredible job putting it all together—the way everything slowly came into place was perfect. Underneath the plot that is Annabelle running, A Heart in a Body in the World is also a story about toxic masculinity and how dangerous it can be—by itself, but also when a gun is involved. Annabelle becomes acquaintances with a new kid at school, and it slowly progresses into something that she could not control. Not because she did not want to, but because her voice was constantly taken away from her. To get into the details of it all would be spoiling the story, which I do not want to do because this book should be required reading. What a powerful piece of literature.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: Facing toxic masculinity—that is, "designating manhood as defined by violence, sex, status and aggression ... the cultural ideal of manliness, where strength is everything while emotions are a weakness" (Clemens, 2017)—is something that has gone unaddressed for too long. Teenage boys are taught that they should act a certain way—and if they do not, they are not "real men." This negatively affects teenage girls, in many more ways that we know, and seeing it for what it is through A Heart in a Body in the World can allow them to speak out about it. Teens might be able to sense when things are wrong, but be unable to explain it. Hopefully, this will shine a light on the issue and bring awareness.

Issues Present: Gun violence, mental illness, sexual harrassment, PTSD, murder

All the themes present in A Heart in a Body in the World are controversial and can cause it to be challenged and banned, but this is such an important book for teens. There are stories in the news where teenage boys are threatening girls with guns because they do not know how to control their emotions when things do not go their way. This is a scary thing, but something that parents and adults should not shy away from discussing. Teens will not be any safer if these issues are ignored—if anything, more harm will be done.

Book Talk Ideas: "This is a large part of Annabelle Agnelli—the weight of what she owes everyone." (p. 4)

  • What causes Annabelle to start running? How does your understand of this shift from when you started reading to when you finished the book? Does Annabelle's reason for running change throughout the story?
  • At the beginning of each chapter, Annabelle writes down facts about hearts. Why is this significant?
  • Do you think Annabelle should feel guilty about the things that happened in her past?
  • What type of emotions does Annabelle go through in A Heart in a Body in the World? Does Annabelle have a right to be angry?

"She understands that when push comes to shove, literally or otherwise, that she must rely on other people being good and doing the right them. And this, as she knows—as she knows very, very well—is a terrifying thing to rely on. It's fine most of the time, but at others, it is a thin thread. The thinnest.”  (p. 10)

"It seems that she's become a person with a message, but she's unclear what the message is. Maybe because the message is still fighting its way through the grief and guilt to get to her.” (p. 209)

Genre/Subgenres: Realistic fiction

Readalikes: Just Listen by Sarah Dessen, Exit, Pursued by a Bear by E. K. Johnston, Starfish by Akemi Dawn Bowman, Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

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Sunday, March 8, 2020

And We Stay by Jenny Hubbard

Title: And We Stay
Author: Jenny Hubbard
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Publication Date: January 28, 2014

Format: eBook
Price: $4.99
Page Count: 240 pages
ISBN-13: 9780375899430

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Lexile: 810
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: After Emily's boyfriend shot himself in the school library, her family sends her to boarding school where she continues to write poetry and heal.

Plot and Content Summary: Set in 1995, Emily transfers to a boarding school halfway through the school year. With her, she brings a lot of baggage: her boyfriend Paul committed suicide after she was forced to break up with him and get an abortion. To tune in to her emotions and confront her memories, she writes poetry inspired by Emily Dickinson. As the story progresses, we get small flashbacks of her and Paul.

Evaluation: Emily's story is told in a very poetic way, reflective of how our main character connects with her emotions. While we know what happened to Paul from the beginning, there are a lot of missing details that readers will be eager to discover. As we are given snippets, going back and forth from Emily's past to Emily's present, we see how she uses poetry to be vulnerable. When her roommate comes across part of her life, she is able to understand Emily a lot more. Although And We Stay was fairly interesting, for the most part, it was difficult to connect with Emily. She wrote about Paul in her poems, but I still am not sure how she feels about their situation. This was not a terrible book, but it is easily forgettable.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: Emily is dealing with grief and she uses a form of art to convey her feelings. For teens who are going through something similar, this could be something to turn to if speaking out loud is difficult. Sometimes, we have emotions that we do not know how to explain, and maybe something else can describe it better—if not poetry, then music, lyrics, painting, etc.

Issues Present: If And We Stay was challenged, it would probably be due to suicide and abortion—two topics we cannot ignore. Books that deal with difficult issues can show readers they are not alone in feeling this way. Although there is not much discussion about Paul's suicide in And We Stay, teens may still connect with how he felt in the situation and want to talk about it. Additionally, it can also be a new perspective for teens, and they may notice this behavior in their peers. If so, it can alert them so they can hopefully help others.

Book Talk Ideas: "Oh, yes, she could feel it / even though the bullet / had never stabbed her skin. / The bright white heat / burned at her core / where two lives beat, and if he'd aimed / there and pulled the trigger, / red would have crested / like a broken dam / over her hands / as her last word rushed / up to her throat—Paul— / a sound that took no time / and also lifetimes." (p. 39)

  • How does Emily use poetry to deal with her grief? (p. 39, 77, 137)
  • Discuss Paul and Emily's relationship. Was it a healthy one?
  • What is the correlation between Emily, our main character, and Emily Dickinson?

Genre/Subgenres: Realistic fiction

Readalikes: Smoke by Ellen Hopkins, Death, Dickinson, and the Demented Life of Frenchie Garcia by Jenny Torres Sanchez, Belzhar by Meg Wolitzer, The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

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Saturday, March 7, 2020

The Art of Losing by Lizzy Mason

Title: The Art of Losing
Author: Lizzy Mason
Publisher: Soho Teen
Publication Date: February 19, 2019

Format: Hardcover
Price: $18.99
Page Count: 336 pages
ISBN-13: 9781616959876

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: Harley's younger sister, Audrey, ends up in a coma after her boyfriend drove drunk and got into an accident, but she has no idea how to feel because she caught them together at a party.

Plot and Content Summary: Harley finds her younger sister, Audrey, and her boyfriend, Mike, together at a party, so she leaves in anger. Hoping to make matters right, Mike drives Audrey home—while he is drunk—and ends up in an accident, leaving Audrey in a coma. Mike comes out unharmed, and is unwilling to admit he has a drinking problem. At the same time, Harley reconnects with her neighbor, Raf, who has recently come out of rehab for alcohol and substance abuse, but still has a lot to come to terms with.

Evaluation: The Art of Losing was not only a book about sisters and forgiveness, but it also excellently tackles the reality and difficulties of alcoholism and addiction. Harley reconnects with Raf while she is grieving, and finds out that he, like Mike, is struggling with substance abuse. The difference with him, however, is that he is actually working to better himself and admit his wrongdoings. Mason does an incredible job at the different portrayals, and how everyone deals with it differently. We see how their decisions impact the people around them, positively and negatively.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: For teens who are struggling with any type of substance abuse, this is a book that they will relate strongly to. Raf and Mike are flawed characters, but there are still people who care about them and want to see them succeed. Even though they make mistakes, a new day is another chance. Hopefully, The Art of Losing will be a beacon of light in a dark place for these teens.

Issues Present: The Art of Losing brings up many difficult and controversial topics, drug/alcohol abuse (substance abuse) and addiction being a big focus. To counter any challenges this book might face, Mason leaves readers with information about dealing with substance abuse. In her author's letter, she talks about going through rehab herself and how Alcohols Anonymous saved her life. She knows the reality that many teens will turn to drug and alcohol for various reasons, but she stresses the importance of finding help.

Book Talk Ideas: "... this sobriety thing isn't a fun new group of people to hang out with; it's not about the parties or the all-nighters at the diner, and it's not just smoking cigarettes outside at meetings and goofing off. It's going to be a struggle for the rest of my life." (p. 282)

  • Compare and contrast the way Mike and Raf deal with substance abuse.
  • How do the people in Harley's life react to how she deals with Mike and Raf's issues?
  • Discuss how Harley's family and friends support her while she is supporting Mike and Raf.
  • How does Mike's drunk driving affect Harley and her relationship with Raf?

Genre/Subgenres: Realistic fiction

Readalikes: Crank by Ellen Hopkins, Paperweight by Meg Haston, Love You Hate You Miss You by Elizabeth Scott

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Friday, March 6, 2020

Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

Title: Long Way Down
Author: Jason Reynolds
Publisher: Atheneum/Caitlyn Dlouhy Books
Publication Date: October 24, 2017

Format: Hardcover
Price: $17.99
Page Count: 320 pages
ISBN-13: 9781481438254

Reading Level: Grades 7 and up (ages 12+)
Lexile: 720
Interest Level: Grades 7 and up (ages 12+)

Annotation: Will's brother was murdered. Now Will's going to find who did it and do the same back to him.

Plot and Content Summary: Told in free verse, Long Way Down follows Will, just as he is about to leave his apartment to get revenge on his brother's murderer. With his brother's gun in hand, he takes the elevator down to leave. But as the door opens at every floor, he encounters people from his past who reveal pieces of the real story behind his brother's death—and more.

Evaluation: Reynolds is an incredible story teller, a man of few words but speaks so powerfully on gun violence. Since Reynolds narrates this story from Will's perspective in a poetic way, we can really feel the trauma he experiences through the metaphors and figurative language he uses. The way gun violence is explored, although not written in prose, clearly shows the dangerous cycle that anyone can get easily caught in. This was impactful and a life-changing read.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: It is clear that Reynolds is taking a stance and using his voice to speak out about gun violence. For those who feel trapped in this culture, he encourages them that it is not impossible to break out. Even though there are rules, and no matter how cornered one may feel, he shares a new perspective to them. Remember who died because of this? What would they say? This is a real issue that some teens were born or forced into.

Issues Present: For the same reason this could help teens, adults may think the opposite. Long Way Down is a brutal and explicit book. Reynolds does not hide the violent realities. For adults who want to censor this because the content is too explicit, this was Reynolds' reality. He wrote from his experience, so he wants to spread this message to others—those who are awfully aware of it AND those who are not. Reynolds is exposing this for what it is and bringing it to light. Yes, we want to protect teens from being part of this. But it can also raise awareness and empower teens.

Book Talk Ideas: "If someone you love / gets killed, / find the person / who killed / them ..." (p. 58)
  • What are some of the themes that show up in Long Way Down?
  • Long Way Down is written in prose. Discuss why this is (or is not) a strong way to convey the themes presented.
  • What are "The Rules" that Will mentions, and do they make sense? (p. 54-58)
  • How does the way Will grew up impact how he lives his life? (p. 58)
  • What do you think Will chose to do in the end?
Genre/Subgenres: African American fiction; Novels in verse

Readalikes: Fight or Flee by Patrick Jones, Solo by Kwame Alexander, Monster by Walter Dean Myers

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Thursday, March 5, 2020

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Title: Speak
Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Publisher: FSG Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: January 15, 2019 (originally 1999)

Format: Hardcover
Price: $19.99
Page Count: 224 pages
ISBN-13: 9780374311254

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Lexile: 690L
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: Melinda has a secret, one that she is afraid to share out loud. Will she find the courage to face her demons in the end?

Plot and Content Summary: After busting up an end-of-summer party by calling the cops, Melinda enters high school as an outcast. All eyes are on her, but nobody talks or listens to her. Only her art class offers solace, and it is through her work on a project that she is finally able to face what really happened.

Evaluation: Speak has a conversational tone, as if Melinda is writing her story down in her diary. There are more observations and reflections than dialogue, which speaks loudly about the title chosen. Dialogue is very minimal, which reflects who Melinda is as a person. There was heavy use of symbolism in Speak, illustrating to readers through Melinda's tree project how she was struggling and how she might feel. All the side characters in Speak (i.e., Heather, Melinda's new friend who is not so much a friend; Mr. Freeman, Melinda's art teacher who challenges her; David Petrakis, Melinda's lab partner/classmate who is not afraid to speak his mind) were used to forward Melinda's character development. Speak follows one plot line—the unraveling of Melinda's secret. This is a mystery that keeps readers invested and puzzle pieces are given over time. This was a heart-breaking read, but a necessary one.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: Speak explores the theme of personal courage in speaking up. Melinda is afraid to use her voice after the trauma she went through, but she slowly finds the strength from inside her—as well as the people around her. This is a common issue that teens may struggle with, and it can empower readers to be brave and share what they are going through. This story shows that no one is alone in this feeling, and words can be powerful if we choose to use them.

Issues Present: Speak has been challenged for containing explicit sexual content and being "filthy and immoral" (Anderson, 2010). Yes, there is no question that rape and sexual abuse IS filthy and immoral. This is all the more reason to talk about it. According to RAINN, "1 out of every 6 American women has been the victim of an attempted or completed rape in her lifetime" ("Scope of the Problem," n. d.). Clearly, this is an issue that needs to be addressed. Especially for those who are victims, they may feel silenced like Melinda. With Speak, hopefully survivors recognize the impact they can make if they speak up. And for those who they choose to speak up to, would we listen and believe them.

Book Talk Ideas:

  • Why do you think Laurie Halse Anderson chose "Speak" to be the title?
  • What keeps Melinda silent? What is she afraid of?
  • Why do you think Melinda refers to Andy as "IT?" When does this change?
  • What type of effect does Mr. Freeman and David Petrakis have in Melinda's life?
  • When (and how) does Melinda finally speak up? What gives her the courage to do so?

Genre/Subgenres: Realistic fiction

Readalikes: Cut by Patricia McCormick, Inexcusable by Chris Lynch, Stop Pretending by Sonya Sones, Faking Normal by Courtney C. Stevens

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Wednesday, March 4, 2020

Shout by Laurie Halse Anderson

Title: Shout
Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: March 12, 2019

Format: Hardcover
Price: $17.99
Page Count: 304 pages
ISBN-13: 9780670012107

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: In free verse, Anderson shares a compilation of reflections and emotion-filled stories from her youth.

Plot and Content Summary: After releasing Speak, a young adult novel following high school freshman Melinda while she deals with trauma from a terrible event, Anderson found the strength and courage to share her personal stories in Shout. She does not shy away from the vulnerable parts of her life that she lived through: her family's struggle to survive, numbing painful circumstances with drugs, alcohol, etc. In Shout, Anderson tells her stories so teens who have experienced similar circumstances can feel no shame doing the same.

Evaluation: This is a powerful read, as Anderson's words are chosen so well to evoke emotion. Although her experiences are unique—but not rare, teens will know exactly where she is coming from and feel the sorrows she has felt. The themes explored in Shout are so personal and things that most people shy away from talking about, but Anderson writes in a way that is so understandable and honest. Shout is empowering, as the growth that Anderson goes through (shown from Part One, to Part Two, to Part Three) is very evident.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: With the platform that Anderson has, she uses her voice to encourage others to talk about the pain they are running from. She has spoken to other survivors who have been trapped in the same situations, and writing this book has given them a voice too. Much of Shout is Anderson's encounter with trauma, and it can be used to help teens cope with theirs.

Issues Present: Similar to the topics her other books address, Shout deals explicitly with topics such as substance abuse, sexual assault, PTSD, and physical abuse. All of Anderson's walls are done, and this book could be challenged due to its intense nature. Anderson herself was a teen going through all this, so there is no doubt that there are teens out there who feel the same way. This book can bring hope to those who are afraid to speak out and share. For parents, this could be an excellent book to discuss with teens. It is an opportunity to listen and understand.

Book Talk Ideas: "Sisters, drop / everything. Walk / away from the lake, leaning / on each other's shoulders / when you need / the support. Feel the contractions / of another truth ready / to be born: shame / turned / inside out / is rage." (p. 227)

  • Why do you think Anderson divided Shout into three different parts? (p. 5, 165, 265)
  • Discuss the metaphors and figurative language that Anderson uses to talk about "shouting" (i.e., p. 177-179, 195-197, 200, 214-215, 227)
  • In "blowing up" (p. 177-179), what does Anderson mean when she writes, "Pain won't be contained / by bars or marks / your scars deserve attention, too"?

Genre/Subgenres: Autobiographies and memoirs; Biographies; First-person narratives; Social issues

Readalikes: Things We Haven't Said: Sexual Violence Survivors Speak Out (anthology), I Have the Right To by Chessy Prout, No More Excuses by Amber J. Keyser

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Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Monster by Walter Dean Myers

Title: Monster
Author: Walter Dean Myers
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: October 6, 2009 (originally April 21, 1999)

Format: eBook
Price: $10.99
Page Count: 336
ISBN-13: 9780061975028

Reading Level: Grades 8 and up (ages 13+)
Lexile: 670L
Interest Level: Grades 8 and up (ages 13+)

Annotation: Steve Harmon documents, in movie script form, his experience in prison and on trial for being an accessory to murder.

Plot and Content Summary: Accused for being the lookout while someone murdered Mr. Nesbitt, the owner of a drugstore, 16-year-old Steve Harmon has been arrested and now sits on trial, awaiting his sentence. Others involved include Richard Evans, known as "Bobo," Osvaldo Cruz, and James King.

Evaluation: Monster was incredibly well-written, with a fast-moving plot and detailed look into the character of Steve Harmon. It highlights the terrors of being in prison, and the politics and plays of the criminal justice system. We are in Steve's mind for most of the story, so we know what he is thinking—but the interesting thing is that we do not know if he is actually guilty or not. This leaves everything open-ended, but perhaps that is what makes Monster so good. We are not given an omniscient look at the situation—only provided statements from the people involved. They could be lying or telling the truth, we have no idea. What we do know, however, is that some are able to say whatever they want because of a deal made beforehand. Readers are then the jurors of this case, figuring out what is true or not. But that is not the point of Monster. Looking into Steve's life, we see not a criminal, but one who has a family, a love for making movies, and a young boy who is scared. However, we must remember that Steve is writing this script and including pieces of his diary entries for us to read. He is controlling the narrative. So what do we believe now?

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: There are many things wrong with the criminal justice system, and Monster can hopefully shed light and cause readers to be empathetic to those who's lives are damaged because of it. It is easy to look at someone who has been accused as a criminal to assume they are guilty, but we do not know the truth of what actually happened.

Issues Present: Monster has been challenged for "explicit language" and "mature themes," as well as "racially-offensive language," "violence," and "drug use." Parents felt like it was inappropriate for young children to read—a response that is understandable, but should not be decided for all children and teens. Monster can be used to engage teens who are in Steve's situation and also bring awareness and exposure to these issues that teens will eventually encounter.

Book Talk Ideas: "Steve turns toward O'Brien ... Steve spreads his arms to hug O'Brien, but she stiffens and turns to pick up her papers from the table before them ..." (p. 276) "I want to know who I am ... When Miss O'Brien looked at me, after we had won the case, what did she see that caused her to turn away? What did she see?" (p. 281)

  • Why do you think Walter Dean Myers wrote Monster in this type of format?
  • Steve writes that this story is "told as it actually happened" (p. 9). Do you think this is true? Would it have been told the same way coming from another accused's perspective?
  • At the end of Monster, Steve questions why Miss O'Brien turned away from him and what she saw. Why do you think he asks this?
  • Do you think Steve is a monster?

Genre/Subgenres: Realistic fiction; African American fiction

Readalikes: Kindness for Weakness by Shawn Goodman, The Walls Around Us by Nova Ren Suma, Long Way Down by Jason Reynolds

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Monday, March 2, 2020

Blood Water Paint by Joy McCullough

Title: Blood Water Paint
Author: Joy McCullough
Publisher: Dutton Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: March 6, 2018

Format: eBook
Price: $9.99
Page Count: 304 pages
ISBN-13: 9780735232129

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Lexile: 740
Interest Level: Grades 11 and up (ages 16+)

Annotation: Told in verse, one of Rome's most talented painters, Artemisia Gentileschi, is overshadowed by men who take what they want.

Plot and Content Summary: Blood Water Paint, based on a true story, follows 17-year-old Artemisia Gentileschi as she toils as a painter in Rome during the 1600s. In her father's studio, she expresses her emotions with a paintbrush, but remains anonymous because her father signs all her paintings with his name. This is a normal occurrence, a time period where men could do whatever they want and get away with it. When an artist recognizes her talent, she wishes to train under him—but she finds out he wants something else from her. She cries out for help with her voice and with her paintings, and ultimately gains strength to fight back.

Evaluation: The way it is written in verse gives Artemisia's story more layers and adds to the sadness. It is told in a way where Artemisia's life is illustrated alongside her paintings. It was difficult, at times, to distinguish between Artemisia describing her art and describing her real life, but that is a personal problem (and not one created by the author). Really, it is a brilliant way to tell such an evocative story.

There is a lot of abuse behavior that Artemisia faces from her family, but McCullough writes it in a careful way. Although there is a small bit of resolution in the end, nothing is mentioned about her brothers who Artemisia states have overheard when she was being raped. This lack of closure is uncomfortable, but is reality.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: Artemisia uses art to express and release her emotions. However, Artemisia's dad gets the credit for her creations. Still, Artemisia's strength and courage to stand up for what's true shines out. This can encourage teens to keep pushing onward no matter what obstacles are in their way. Justice will be served one day.

Issues Present: Rape, sexual assault, abuse

Many books with similar themes have been challenged and banned for "immoral content." While rape and sexual assault, along with abuse, are topics for more mature readers, it should not be removed from libraries. According to RAINN, an American is sexually assaulted every 73 seconds. Every nine minutes, that victim is a child ("Scope of the Problem," n. d.). What happens to Artemisia, is, unfortunately, still relevant today. Blood Water Paint can give a voice for sexual assault survivors to speak out.

Book Talk Ideas: How does Artemisia use her art to illustrate her life? (p. 35-37) Why do you think McCullough decided to write most of Blood Water Paint in verse? What is the overall tone of this novel?

Genre/Subgenres: Historical fiction; Novels in verse

Readalikes: Buried Beneath the Baobab Tree by Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani, The Queen's Soprano by Carol Dines, The Language of Fire by Stephanie Hemphill

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Sunday, March 1, 2020

What If It's Us by Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera

Title: What If It's Us
Authors: Becky Albertalli and Adam Silvera
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: October 9, 2018

Format: eBook
Price: $10.99
Page Count: 448 pages
ISBN-13: 9780062795243

Reading Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)
Lexile: HL 610L
Interest Level: Grades 9 and up (ages 14+)

Annotation: Two teen boys meet in a New York City post office and try everything to find each other again after losing their first chance to connect.

Plot and Content Summary: Told in dual perspective, What If It's Us follows two gay teenage boys: Broadway-loving, quirky Arthur, who is in New York City for the summer as an intern at his mom's law office, and NYC native Ben, who is currently taking summer school to graduate on time, writing a fantasy novel as his side hobby, and getting over a break-up. Ben is at the post office to mail his ex-boyfriend's things back to him, and Arthur gains the courage to approach him. Although they chat and, quite possibly, feel a spark, Ben ends up leaving before they exchange contact information. Arthur is desperate to see him again, so he does everything he can to track Ben down. Little does he know, Ben is doing the same.

Evaluation: What If It's Us is guaranteed to be a hit among teens. Equal parts comedic, fluffy, and just an adventure to read, the Albertalli-Silvera duo is, as expected, entertaining. With both perspectives of Ben and Arthur, Albertalli and Silvera captures both personalities so well. We get a realistic look at how two teen boys struggle through the beginnings of a new relationship and how their issues, big and small, are dealt with—showing up on time, interacting with ex-boyfriends, etc. Albertalli and Silvera took on these conflicts well and did not just breeze through them. Sometimes, relationships are difficult, no matter how much we want things to work out. What If It's Us did not just focus on Ben and Arthur's relationship, however. We were able to see the dynamics between the two of them, alongside their parents, friends, and even co-workers. Glimpses into the lives of their families and friends provided a deeper look at who Ben and Arthur are. Despite the convenience of many events, it really was a fun read.

Bibliotherapeutic Usefulness: Although Ben and Arthur are fresh in their new relationship, there are a lot of things that come up and warrant discussion. Ben is no longer hung up on his ex-boyfriend, but Arthur harbors negative feelings about it because he thinks they are in secret contact. Because he is unsure of their situation, it causes some hurt. It takes some time for Ben to talk to him about it, which is understandable, and Ben eventually confesses his true thoughts about him and his ex-boyfriend. This can be a great lesson for teens, that being honest is necessary in a relationship. Even though Ben assured Arthur he had nothing to worry about, Ben was still willing to sort it out in detail so Arthur would be okay. This is an ongoing theme in the entirety of What If It's Us.

Issues Present: What If It's Us will probably be challenged, if it has not yet, for containing LGBTQ+ content. For those who are not comfortable with talking about their sexuality, this can bring a small source of hope. Both Ben and Arthur's parents are accepting of Ben and Arthur's sexual preferences, which means they have adults to walk alongside them and support them. However, this book is not immune to the discrimination that those who identify as LGBTQ+ receive. While Ben and Arthur are on the metro, a father with his child calls them out and says they should not be cuddling in public. He tells them he does not want his child to see it because it is wrong, and Arthur gets scared. He tells Ben he did not think something like that would happen in New York City, of all places. This is the reality, and can show teens who share the same feelings as the dad to take on a new perspective. At the very least, teens will see themselves represented in What If It's Us. Reading this can help teens understand their sexuality and open them up to speak about it with people they trust. This is the hope, that if they do not have it now, that there would one day come friends and family who will support them no matter what.

Book Talk Ideas: "I believe in love at first sight. Fate, the universe, all of it ... I just think you're meant to meet some people. I think the universe nudges them into your path." (p. 7) Arthur talks a lot about fate and "the universe" bringing him and Ben together. Why do you think he feels this way? How has fate played a role (or not played a role) in their relationship?

  • Why is Ben embarrassed about taking summer school?
  • Arthur is passionate about Broadway and Ben is passionate about writing. How do these two forms of art play into the way these two get to know each other? How does Arthur use Broadway music and Ben use his story to express themselves?

Genre/Subgenres: Realistic fiction; LGBTQ+ fiction

Readalikes: Bloom by Kevin Panetta, This Train is Being Held by Ismee Williams, This is Kind of an Epic Love Story by Kacen Callender

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