The "J" Reviews--See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Just Listen, by Sarah Dessen
*A Booksense Top Ten Pic, An ALA Best Book for Young Adults, A New York Times Bestseller, A YALSA Teen’s Top Ten*
Core themes: the emotional trauma and other consequences resulting from rape; eating disorders; the importance of finding the courage and strength to speak out when necessary, even when it's difficult; the value of honesty and genuine listening; how things are often not what they appear on the surface
Drugs/alcohol: teens drink beer at a party; supporting character drinks beer and wine
Religion/occult: none
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: main character is almost raped by a male schoolmate (graphic)
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 7 (occasional)
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: I can see why Sarah Dessen has become synonymous with young adult literature. She has her finger on the pulse of contemporary teen culture and can write for her audience in a way that both supports and mentors them--but more as an older friend, not as a distant adult. Just Listen is the first book of hers that I have read, so I don't know how it compares with her many other novels; however, I was impressed by the quality and depth of the story. It was complex enough to explore her difficult themes in a meaningful way, but it wasn't heavy enough to wear me out or bore me. Although there were a few spots that seemed to falter from a literary perspective--confusing here, awkwardly worded there--overall it is a strong novel that is worth reading, especially for girls who have experienced sexual violence of any kind.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens /no teens.
Author's Official Website: http://sarahdessen.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*A Booksense Top Ten Pic, An ALA Best Book for Young Adults, A New York Times Bestseller, A YALSA Teen’s Top Ten*
Core themes: the emotional trauma and other consequences resulting from rape; eating disorders; the importance of finding the courage and strength to speak out when necessary, even when it's difficult; the value of honesty and genuine listening; how things are often not what they appear on the surface
Drugs/alcohol: teens drink beer at a party; supporting character drinks beer and wine
Religion/occult: none
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: main character is almost raped by a male schoolmate (graphic)
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 7 (occasional)
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: I can see why Sarah Dessen has become synonymous with young adult literature. She has her finger on the pulse of contemporary teen culture and can write for her audience in a way that both supports and mentors them--but more as an older friend, not as a distant adult. Just Listen is the first book of hers that I have read, so I don't know how it compares with her many other novels; however, I was impressed by the quality and depth of the story. It was complex enough to explore her difficult themes in a meaningful way, but it wasn't heavy enough to wear me out or bore me. Although there were a few spots that seemed to falter from a literary perspective--confusing here, awkwardly worded there--overall it is a strong novel that is worth reading, especially for girls who have experienced sexual violence of any kind.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens /no teens.
Author's Official Website: http://sarahdessen.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist