The "W" Reviews--See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Warriors in the Crossfire, by Nancy Bo Flood
*ALA YALSA: 2011 Best Fiction for Young Adults; Booklist Editor’s Choice 2010 for popular appeal and literary excellence; VOYA Magazine: Top Shelf Fiction for Middle School Readers, Feb 2011 issue; IRA Notable Books for a Global Society; Colorado Book Award; nominated for the Oklahoma Book Award*
Core themes: learning to face fears and survive; to survive adversity you must bend, or you'll break; traditional wisdom and lessons of the past help us grow and mature in order to face the difficult decisions of adulthood; in war even the innocent must become warriors who must fight to live; the horrors of war and the testing of friendship when loyalties are divided
Drugs/alcohol: soldiers are drunk with sake and beer
Religion/occult: On Saipan, the island nation on which the novel takes place, Catholic Christianity has clearly made inroads, mixing with the traditional pagan religious practices. Throughout the novel characters pray to their ancestors and the spirits of the sea, as well as engage in traditional sacred rituals; at the same time, they pray the rosary and go to mass, until the soldiers shut down the churches and arrest the clergy and nuns. Joseph's mother continually prays the rosary to cope her fears during the American invasion. Soldiers desecrate the altar of the local church, preparing a meal on it. Boy crosses himself.
Romance/sexuality: a couple of subtle allusions to erotic-marital love between Joseph's sister and her husband; crude boys lust over a nearby woman's breasts, since the traditional native garment for women is only a skirt.
Violence/abuse: Violence is a frequent presence in this novel, because it is about the American invasion of Saipan and the Japanese resistance. Although the author doesn't dwell on gruesome details, she does not shy away from giving clear snapshots of the carnage. Milder examples include a reference to the beheading of Joseph's mother's uncle and the beating/starving of Joseph's father, who returns home emaciated and soon dies. Disastrous chaos overwhelms the last third of the novel, too. A woman and her two children are shot and beheaded; Japanese soldiers mass execute the residents of Saipan (men, women, and children) by forcing them to jump off a cliff; many bombs fall and both kill and maim soldiers and innocents; a soldier shoots a child in the leg.
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: I didn't expect to like this novel, because I thought it would be too boyish for my taste. Actually, though, this is one of the most powerful YA novels I've read. It does focus on the friendship of two teenage boys, but the core of the novel is about learning to be strong and survive in the face of adversity. Flood's story is told in the simple, spare style of Japanese poetry, which wraps its painful events in a veil of beauty that makes the novel both bearable and moving. By the last pages, tears had come to my eyes as I pondered the strength so many innocent people had to find within themselves to either face their deaths with courage or to survive the war's many horrors. This story is also worth reading because it tells of a little-known chapter in World War II history, the American invasion of Saipan, which in victory gave American soldiers the ability to use the island nation to launch air strikes on Japan. I highly recommend this book both as a literary study for school and as thought-provoking leisure reading.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://nancyboflood.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*ALA YALSA: 2011 Best Fiction for Young Adults; Booklist Editor’s Choice 2010 for popular appeal and literary excellence; VOYA Magazine: Top Shelf Fiction for Middle School Readers, Feb 2011 issue; IRA Notable Books for a Global Society; Colorado Book Award; nominated for the Oklahoma Book Award*
Core themes: learning to face fears and survive; to survive adversity you must bend, or you'll break; traditional wisdom and lessons of the past help us grow and mature in order to face the difficult decisions of adulthood; in war even the innocent must become warriors who must fight to live; the horrors of war and the testing of friendship when loyalties are divided
Drugs/alcohol: soldiers are drunk with sake and beer
Religion/occult: On Saipan, the island nation on which the novel takes place, Catholic Christianity has clearly made inroads, mixing with the traditional pagan religious practices. Throughout the novel characters pray to their ancestors and the spirits of the sea, as well as engage in traditional sacred rituals; at the same time, they pray the rosary and go to mass, until the soldiers shut down the churches and arrest the clergy and nuns. Joseph's mother continually prays the rosary to cope her fears during the American invasion. Soldiers desecrate the altar of the local church, preparing a meal on it. Boy crosses himself.
Romance/sexuality: a couple of subtle allusions to erotic-marital love between Joseph's sister and her husband; crude boys lust over a nearby woman's breasts, since the traditional native garment for women is only a skirt.
Violence/abuse: Violence is a frequent presence in this novel, because it is about the American invasion of Saipan and the Japanese resistance. Although the author doesn't dwell on gruesome details, she does not shy away from giving clear snapshots of the carnage. Milder examples include a reference to the beheading of Joseph's mother's uncle and the beating/starving of Joseph's father, who returns home emaciated and soon dies. Disastrous chaos overwhelms the last third of the novel, too. A woman and her two children are shot and beheaded; Japanese soldiers mass execute the residents of Saipan (men, women, and children) by forcing them to jump off a cliff; many bombs fall and both kill and maim soldiers and innocents; a soldier shoots a child in the leg.
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: I didn't expect to like this novel, because I thought it would be too boyish for my taste. Actually, though, this is one of the most powerful YA novels I've read. It does focus on the friendship of two teenage boys, but the core of the novel is about learning to be strong and survive in the face of adversity. Flood's story is told in the simple, spare style of Japanese poetry, which wraps its painful events in a veil of beauty that makes the novel both bearable and moving. By the last pages, tears had come to my eyes as I pondered the strength so many innocent people had to find within themselves to either face their deaths with courage or to survive the war's many horrors. This story is also worth reading because it tells of a little-known chapter in World War II history, the American invasion of Saipan, which in victory gave American soldiers the ability to use the island nation to launch air strikes on Japan. I highly recommend this book both as a literary study for school and as thought-provoking leisure reading.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://nancyboflood.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
The Wells Bequest, by Polly Shulman (companion to The Grimm Legacy)
*Pennsylvania Keystone to Reading Middle School Book Award; Newsday Summer Reading Picks, 2013; Listen Up Award, 2014 (audio edition)*
Core themes: time travel, first romance, friendship, trust, science fiction; Big Question: Would it be right to change the past if we could go back in time?
Drugs/alcohol: none
Religion/occult: none
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: a teen co-worker of the main characters threatens to destroy New York City with the death ray he has acquired
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Just like its predecessor, The Grimm Legacy, this story is wonderful fun. No agonizing teen angst, no disturbing issues to contemplate, nothing depressing--only good, clean fun. And while I can't call it great literature (which is why I have to stop at three stars), the imagination behind this cheerful, uplifting tale is simply astounding. Hand it to Polly Shulman! When it comes to thinking up fresh ways to twist the familiar, she is an inspiration.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://pollyshulman.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*Pennsylvania Keystone to Reading Middle School Book Award; Newsday Summer Reading Picks, 2013; Listen Up Award, 2014 (audio edition)*
Core themes: time travel, first romance, friendship, trust, science fiction; Big Question: Would it be right to change the past if we could go back in time?
Drugs/alcohol: none
Religion/occult: none
Romance/sexuality: 1
Violence/abuse: a teen co-worker of the main characters threatens to destroy New York City with the death ray he has acquired
Vulgarities: none
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Just like its predecessor, The Grimm Legacy, this story is wonderful fun. No agonizing teen angst, no disturbing issues to contemplate, nothing depressing--only good, clean fun. And while I can't call it great literature (which is why I have to stop at three stars), the imagination behind this cheerful, uplifting tale is simply astounding. Hand it to Polly Shulman! When it comes to thinking up fresh ways to twist the familiar, she is an inspiration.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://pollyshulman.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
We Were Liars, by E. Lockhart
*New York Times bestseller*
Core themes: wealth and the accumulation of beautiful objects as a life goal; friendship; tragedy; guilt and forgiveness; manipulation by a family patriarch destroying a family; racism
Drugs/alcohol: Cadence takes many strong and addictive medications for her illnesses; the teens often drink wine, sometimes to excess; the grandfather and aunts (including Cadence’s mother) all seem to be alcoholics; mixing of strong drugs and alcohol
Religion/occult: God and faith do not figure strongly in the story. The teens seem to ignore him unless something horrible is happening; then they pray. Gat blatantly doesn’t believe.
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 4
Violence/abuse: Cadence often describes her emotions violently (e.g. she imagines her father has shot her in the chest when he leaves). Many of these descriptions are graphic. At the end of the book--SPOILER ALERT--Cadence realizes she, her cousins, and Gat set her grandfather’s house on fire. The other three teenagers were killed.
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: At one point Gat, who admits he no longer believes in God, says, “The question is: how to be a good person if I don’t believe anymore.” This is actually a great question to discuss with teens, as many people want to believe they can be “good” even if they are not religious--but most moral systems falter when separated from God.
The revelation at the end of the book--SPOILER ALERT--(that the three other teenagers died in a fire they and Cadence started) makes you want to re-read it to discover all the clues, but it is a violent and tragic end, more fitting for older teens.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.emilylockhart.com/; http://www.theboyfriendlist.com/ (the author’s blog)
Reviewer: Jill Papsdorf
*New York Times bestseller*
Core themes: wealth and the accumulation of beautiful objects as a life goal; friendship; tragedy; guilt and forgiveness; manipulation by a family patriarch destroying a family; racism
Drugs/alcohol: Cadence takes many strong and addictive medications for her illnesses; the teens often drink wine, sometimes to excess; the grandfather and aunts (including Cadence’s mother) all seem to be alcoholics; mixing of strong drugs and alcohol
Religion/occult: God and faith do not figure strongly in the story. The teens seem to ignore him unless something horrible is happening; then they pray. Gat blatantly doesn’t believe.
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 4
Violence/abuse: Cadence often describes her emotions violently (e.g. she imagines her father has shot her in the chest when he leaves). Many of these descriptions are graphic. At the end of the book--SPOILER ALERT--Cadence realizes she, her cousins, and Gat set her grandfather’s house on fire. The other three teenagers were killed.
Vulgarities: 1, 3, 4
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: At one point Gat, who admits he no longer believes in God, says, “The question is: how to be a good person if I don’t believe anymore.” This is actually a great question to discuss with teens, as many people want to believe they can be “good” even if they are not religious--but most moral systems falter when separated from God.
The revelation at the end of the book--SPOILER ALERT--(that the three other teenagers died in a fire they and Cadence started) makes you want to re-read it to discover all the clues, but it is a violent and tragic end, more fitting for older teens.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.emilylockhart.com/; http://www.theboyfriendlist.com/ (the author’s blog)
Reviewer: Jill Papsdorf
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
What I Saw and How I Lied, by Judy Blundell
*Winner of the 2008 National Book Award for Young People's Literature; An ALA Best Book for Young Adults; A School Library Journal Best Book 2008; Romantic Times Book Review--2008 Reviewers’ Choice Nominee*
Core themes: post-WW II adjustments; growing up (physical and emotional); modesty/rules vs. mild rebellion/crossing boundaries; first romance; anti-Semitism; suspected murder; adultery; honesty vs. perjury; betrayal vs. loyalty
Drugs/alcohol: mild adult drinking, smoking, positive talk about smoking between teens (keep in mind, however, that the time is barely after WWII)
Religion/occult: not reviewed for this novel
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2
Violence/abuse: some references to the Jews’ plight in Nazi Germany; a probable, non-graphic murder near end of book (reader is kept guessing)
Vulgarities: 1, 5
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: It is unfortunate that the author chose to include unnecessary swearing and blasphemy. It is an otherwise beautifully-written page-turner that older teens would enjoy.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://judyblundell.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*Winner of the 2008 National Book Award for Young People's Literature; An ALA Best Book for Young Adults; A School Library Journal Best Book 2008; Romantic Times Book Review--2008 Reviewers’ Choice Nominee*
Core themes: post-WW II adjustments; growing up (physical and emotional); modesty/rules vs. mild rebellion/crossing boundaries; first romance; anti-Semitism; suspected murder; adultery; honesty vs. perjury; betrayal vs. loyalty
Drugs/alcohol: mild adult drinking, smoking, positive talk about smoking between teens (keep in mind, however, that the time is barely after WWII)
Religion/occult: not reviewed for this novel
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2
Violence/abuse: some references to the Jews’ plight in Nazi Germany; a probable, non-graphic murder near end of book (reader is kept guessing)
Vulgarities: 1, 5
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: It is unfortunate that the author chose to include unnecessary swearing and blasphemy. It is an otherwise beautifully-written page-turner that older teens would enjoy.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://judyblundell.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
When Audrey Met Alice, by Rebecca Behrens
*Publishers Weekly Book of the Week, SW Iowa Battle of the Books Selection (2015-16); winner of the 2015 OPLbery Medal; Saint Ann’s School Mock Newbery 2015 finalist*
Why this book is worth considering:
Sometimes girls just want to have fun when they read, and this novel is just right for that. Though the protagonist, First Daughter Audrey Rhodes, is around 13 or 14 (her age was never made quite clear), the story would appeal to both younger and older girls. The premise is interesting--Audrey is the daughter of the president of the United States (a woman!) but feels anything but privileged to be imprisoned in the White House with bodyguards. She misses her Minnesota hometown, her friends, her house, and she struggles to make friends at the posh Friends Academy in Washington D.C. One day she discovers the hidden diary of Alice Roosevelt, daughter of President Teddy Roosevelt, and finally connects with someone who understands how she feels. Throughout the book we see Audrey struggle and fail, then grow and mature because of Alice's helpful influence. The ending is hopeful and satisfying, and the story is light and fun, especially because the reader gets to have an inside look at the life of a First Daughter (which I can only assume is accurate).
Why it may not be right for your teen:
It is rare that I come across a book as preachy as this one. Decades ago, it was normal for writers to be obvious in the message they want to send to readers, but today preachiness is a cardinal sin in the publishing world. Yet, somehow Behrens manages to get away with this, possibly because of its strong, trendy political nature and because it is woven so well into a fresh, fun story. What is this message? It is none other than a call for gay marriage legalization, and it is not an aspect of the book that readers can gloss over if it makes them uncomfortable. For Audrey, who has a gay uncle who desires to marry his partner in a state where it's illegal, the issue is of pressing concern to her, and she is incensed that her mother is not making it more of a priority in her administration. This political/moral theme is prevalent throughout the book and ends with a critically acclaimed essay (that is, in her fictional world) by Audrey that presents her case for gay marriage rights.
Although the novel is first and foremost about Audrey's struggle to find her footing as First Daughter, the subtext is a strong argument to the readers for gay marriage rights, and it is through this issue that Audrey finds the footing she seeks--a way she feels she can be a positive influence in her high-profile role. Other than this controversial aspect of the novel, When Audrey Met Alice is a clean story with very little swearing, no sex, no religious material, and only some mild romance (kissing) between Audrey and one of her few male friends at school.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens. Note: Although the story is age-appropriate enough for all teens, the political/moral subtext may not be.
Author website: http://rebeccabehrens.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*Publishers Weekly Book of the Week, SW Iowa Battle of the Books Selection (2015-16); winner of the 2015 OPLbery Medal; Saint Ann’s School Mock Newbery 2015 finalist*
Why this book is worth considering:
Sometimes girls just want to have fun when they read, and this novel is just right for that. Though the protagonist, First Daughter Audrey Rhodes, is around 13 or 14 (her age was never made quite clear), the story would appeal to both younger and older girls. The premise is interesting--Audrey is the daughter of the president of the United States (a woman!) but feels anything but privileged to be imprisoned in the White House with bodyguards. She misses her Minnesota hometown, her friends, her house, and she struggles to make friends at the posh Friends Academy in Washington D.C. One day she discovers the hidden diary of Alice Roosevelt, daughter of President Teddy Roosevelt, and finally connects with someone who understands how she feels. Throughout the book we see Audrey struggle and fail, then grow and mature because of Alice's helpful influence. The ending is hopeful and satisfying, and the story is light and fun, especially because the reader gets to have an inside look at the life of a First Daughter (which I can only assume is accurate).
Why it may not be right for your teen:
It is rare that I come across a book as preachy as this one. Decades ago, it was normal for writers to be obvious in the message they want to send to readers, but today preachiness is a cardinal sin in the publishing world. Yet, somehow Behrens manages to get away with this, possibly because of its strong, trendy political nature and because it is woven so well into a fresh, fun story. What is this message? It is none other than a call for gay marriage legalization, and it is not an aspect of the book that readers can gloss over if it makes them uncomfortable. For Audrey, who has a gay uncle who desires to marry his partner in a state where it's illegal, the issue is of pressing concern to her, and she is incensed that her mother is not making it more of a priority in her administration. This political/moral theme is prevalent throughout the book and ends with a critically acclaimed essay (that is, in her fictional world) by Audrey that presents her case for gay marriage rights.
Although the novel is first and foremost about Audrey's struggle to find her footing as First Daughter, the subtext is a strong argument to the readers for gay marriage rights, and it is through this issue that Audrey finds the footing she seeks--a way she feels she can be a positive influence in her high-profile role. Other than this controversial aspect of the novel, When Audrey Met Alice is a clean story with very little swearing, no sex, no religious material, and only some mild romance (kissing) between Audrey and one of her few male friends at school.
I would suggest this book to: younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens. Note: Although the story is age-appropriate enough for all teens, the political/moral subtext may not be.
Author website: http://rebeccabehrens.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
When Dimple Met Rishi, by Sandhya Menon
*NYT Bestseller, National Indie Bestseller, Top 10 Indie Next Pick, Junior Library Guild Selection, 2017 Goodreads Choice Award Finalist, Amazon Best Book of the Year, School Library Journal Best Book of the Year, NPR Books Best Book of the Year, Target Best Book of the Year, American Library Association Best Fiction for Young Adults 2018 pick, ALA Amelia Bloomer List pick--feminist YA fiction, Indies Choice Award Finalist, 2018 South Asia Award Honor Book, Winner of the 2018 Colorado Book Award in Young Adult Literature*
Why this book is worth considering:
What I liked best about this book is that it has complex characters and is a really pleasant read. It’s a well-written look at self-discovery, first love, and cultural complexity in two teens the summer before they start college. Dimple Shah is straining for independence and freedom to pursue a career in coding without her mother’s constant pressure to find the “Ideal Indian Husband.” Rishi Patel loves the traditions he grew up with and has a romantic view of arranged marriages. Both characters are incredibly likeable, smart, and admirable while still having obvious flaws. Together, they allow the reader to explore different views on family, career aspirations, traditions, expectations, and love. The book has a fairly diverse cast of characters in regards to ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and sexuality. It also explores the various forms that bullying and peer pressure may take, as well as potential responses.
Why this book may not be right for your teen:
The primary plot line is a romance between Rishi and Dimple, which does become sexual. The sex scene is not graphic, but there is enough here that if you are trying to avoid sexual descriptions, this probably isn’t the book for you. There are also references to other characters having sex, most notably Dimple’s roommate. Dimple’s roommate is bisexual, although this is not a significant plot point. The main characters don’t partake in any underage drinking or drug use, but there are references to other teens drinking and the possibility of drug use at a party. There is one very mild fight scene. The religious references are fairly limited, but the book does include some brief descriptions of Hindu religious practices and references to the Hindu pantheon (including frequent use of the phrase, “Oh my gods”). There is no profanity, but there are bullies who make racist and misogynist comments.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author website: http://www.sandhyamenon.com/
Reviewer: Emma Moore
*NYT Bestseller, National Indie Bestseller, Top 10 Indie Next Pick, Junior Library Guild Selection, 2017 Goodreads Choice Award Finalist, Amazon Best Book of the Year, School Library Journal Best Book of the Year, NPR Books Best Book of the Year, Target Best Book of the Year, American Library Association Best Fiction for Young Adults 2018 pick, ALA Amelia Bloomer List pick--feminist YA fiction, Indies Choice Award Finalist, 2018 South Asia Award Honor Book, Winner of the 2018 Colorado Book Award in Young Adult Literature*
Why this book is worth considering:
What I liked best about this book is that it has complex characters and is a really pleasant read. It’s a well-written look at self-discovery, first love, and cultural complexity in two teens the summer before they start college. Dimple Shah is straining for independence and freedom to pursue a career in coding without her mother’s constant pressure to find the “Ideal Indian Husband.” Rishi Patel loves the traditions he grew up with and has a romantic view of arranged marriages. Both characters are incredibly likeable, smart, and admirable while still having obvious flaws. Together, they allow the reader to explore different views on family, career aspirations, traditions, expectations, and love. The book has a fairly diverse cast of characters in regards to ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and sexuality. It also explores the various forms that bullying and peer pressure may take, as well as potential responses.
Why this book may not be right for your teen:
The primary plot line is a romance between Rishi and Dimple, which does become sexual. The sex scene is not graphic, but there is enough here that if you are trying to avoid sexual descriptions, this probably isn’t the book for you. There are also references to other characters having sex, most notably Dimple’s roommate. Dimple’s roommate is bisexual, although this is not a significant plot point. The main characters don’t partake in any underage drinking or drug use, but there are references to other teens drinking and the possibility of drug use at a party. There is one very mild fight scene. The religious references are fairly limited, but the book does include some brief descriptions of Hindu religious practices and references to the Hindu pantheon (including frequent use of the phrase, “Oh my gods”). There is no profanity, but there are bullies who make racist and misogynist comments.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author website: http://www.sandhyamenon.com/
Reviewer: Emma Moore
See the content keys for an explanation of the numbers.
Why We Broke Up, by Daniel Handler
*2012 Michael L. Printz Honor Book*
Core themes: first love, teen relationships, self-worth
Drugs/alcohol: multiple occurrences of underage drinking both at school functions and after basketball games; references to kegs in trunks of cars and drinking Viper
Religion/occult: The protagonist is Jewish, and her friends are Christian. There is some irreverent back-and-forth regarding their respective faiths
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 3
Violence/abuse: none
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Note: Pretty much everything is represented in this novel ad nauseum. I gave up counting and listing after awhile.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Why We Broke Up is one long letter/dialogue from a girl to her ex-boyfriend detailing why they broke up. The letter is accompanied by artwork depicting various items she kept during their relationship. The souvenirs have been placed in a box that she returns to him along with the letter. As the details of the relationship unfold, you may find yourself hoping the title isn’t true, that somehow this will come out all right in the end. Aspects of the relationship are sweet, endearing and at times even romantic for teen "love.”
The stumbling block here is that I question this being a young adult novel. It seems to be a more appropriate catharsis for adults who have had a similar "been there done that” experience. However, what really does this book in is the language and promiscuity. The few people who advise caution and restraint are either maligned or ignored as the protagonist rushes blindly into life-altering decisions. Much of the prose is stylish and cleverly written, but it is also peppered with the unnecessary and repetitive profanity that has become so commonplace in both modern literature and film. In the end, this is a book version of a John Hughes movie (Sixteen Candles fits the bill nicely) with rougher language and an unhappy ending.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author website: http://www.danielhandler.com/ (Readers might be interested to know that Handler is "Lemony Snicket," the author of A Series of Unfortunate Events.)
Reviewer: Sabrina Holland
*2012 Michael L. Printz Honor Book*
Core themes: first love, teen relationships, self-worth
Drugs/alcohol: multiple occurrences of underage drinking both at school functions and after basketball games; references to kegs in trunks of cars and drinking Viper
Religion/occult: The protagonist is Jewish, and her friends are Christian. There is some irreverent back-and-forth regarding their respective faiths
Romance/sexuality: 1, 2, 3
Violence/abuse: none
Vulgarities: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 Note: Pretty much everything is represented in this novel ad nauseum. I gave up counting and listing after awhile.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
Comments: Why We Broke Up is one long letter/dialogue from a girl to her ex-boyfriend detailing why they broke up. The letter is accompanied by artwork depicting various items she kept during their relationship. The souvenirs have been placed in a box that she returns to him along with the letter. As the details of the relationship unfold, you may find yourself hoping the title isn’t true, that somehow this will come out all right in the end. Aspects of the relationship are sweet, endearing and at times even romantic for teen "love.”
The stumbling block here is that I question this being a young adult novel. It seems to be a more appropriate catharsis for adults who have had a similar "been there done that” experience. However, what really does this book in is the language and promiscuity. The few people who advise caution and restraint are either maligned or ignored as the protagonist rushes blindly into life-altering decisions. Much of the prose is stylish and cleverly written, but it is also peppered with the unnecessary and repetitive profanity that has become so commonplace in both modern literature and film. In the end, this is a book version of a John Hughes movie (Sixteen Candles fits the bill nicely) with rougher language and an unhappy ending.
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens /all teens/ no teens.
Author website: http://www.danielhandler.com/ (Readers might be interested to know that Handler is "Lemony Snicket," the author of A Series of Unfortunate Events.)
Reviewer: Sabrina Holland
The Wicked and the Just, by J. Anderson Coats
*Kirkus’s Best Teen Books, 2012; YALSA Best for Young Adults winner, 2013; School Library Journal Best Books of 2012 selection; Washington State Book Award for Young Adults, 2013*
Why this book is worth considering:
This is one of YA fiction's rare finds--a literary novel that I would actually consider teaching in an English class or using in a homeschool course. Set in 13th-century Wales, it follows the misadventures of an angry teenage girl who has been ripped from a home that she loves to establish a new home with her father, a noble, in a hostile Welsh town. What is unusual about this book is that it has two primary characters, English Cecily and Welsh Gwinny, neither of whom play the typical role of a heroine. They are both unpleasant, unlikable, and have a remarkable capacity for vengeance and cruelty. This makes it hard to relate to them, and yet both their character development and the tale are brilliant and unpredictable. Coats's writing is likewise brilliant, using diction that is so precise and historically correct (I think) that this medieval Welsh town comes alive in my imagination in a way that sometimes modern fiction doesn't even manage to do.
Less a novel meant to entertain and more a study of character and theme, this is a novel that deserves close reading and discussion. The bonus is that it's fascinating, too. Parents less concerned about literary quality and more concerned about inappropriate content may rest easy in regards to sex, romance, drugs, and adult themes. It is remarkably clean in that regard.
Why this book may not be right for your teen:
As a story, I find nothing objectionable at all; however, Coats' does not sugar-coat her characters or the setting for the sake of her readers. The novel contains both emotional and physical abuse and some graphic violence, including a horrific scene near the end when Cecily's town is sacked. In addition, religious readers may be disturbed by the swearing. Since the story is set in medieval Christendom, modern swear words are not used, but blasphemous ones are. Some of these may be considered one-word prayers by some readers--for example, when a character is frightened. Others, though, are simply used as we might use them as swear words today. Non-religious readers should be aware that the novel is not religious in itself, but because of its setting it does make many references to God, Jesus, the saints, and Catholic customs of the time. The novel also contains some sexual crudeness. Although there is no sex, there are a couple of vulgar references to female anatomy, and there is one brief but possibly disturbing scene of physical sexual harassment. All that said, I think it's important to understand that I believe that Coats' use of this kind of content is meant to be true to the times and the characters, not to be gratuitous.
On a minor note, I did find myself confused quite often in this novel. Coats's style is to avoid spelling things out for the reader but to allow the reader to understand through context clues. Although this may be an effective strategy at times, I was usually unable to grasp her meaning when she did this. Some of the time I was confused because she chose to convey ideas and information through understatement, and other times I was confused because the medieval diction she used was so foreign to me that I had no way to understand without taking the time to look up words.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.jandersoncoats.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*Kirkus’s Best Teen Books, 2012; YALSA Best for Young Adults winner, 2013; School Library Journal Best Books of 2012 selection; Washington State Book Award for Young Adults, 2013*
Why this book is worth considering:
This is one of YA fiction's rare finds--a literary novel that I would actually consider teaching in an English class or using in a homeschool course. Set in 13th-century Wales, it follows the misadventures of an angry teenage girl who has been ripped from a home that she loves to establish a new home with her father, a noble, in a hostile Welsh town. What is unusual about this book is that it has two primary characters, English Cecily and Welsh Gwinny, neither of whom play the typical role of a heroine. They are both unpleasant, unlikable, and have a remarkable capacity for vengeance and cruelty. This makes it hard to relate to them, and yet both their character development and the tale are brilliant and unpredictable. Coats's writing is likewise brilliant, using diction that is so precise and historically correct (I think) that this medieval Welsh town comes alive in my imagination in a way that sometimes modern fiction doesn't even manage to do.
Less a novel meant to entertain and more a study of character and theme, this is a novel that deserves close reading and discussion. The bonus is that it's fascinating, too. Parents less concerned about literary quality and more concerned about inappropriate content may rest easy in regards to sex, romance, drugs, and adult themes. It is remarkably clean in that regard.
Why this book may not be right for your teen:
As a story, I find nothing objectionable at all; however, Coats' does not sugar-coat her characters or the setting for the sake of her readers. The novel contains both emotional and physical abuse and some graphic violence, including a horrific scene near the end when Cecily's town is sacked. In addition, religious readers may be disturbed by the swearing. Since the story is set in medieval Christendom, modern swear words are not used, but blasphemous ones are. Some of these may be considered one-word prayers by some readers--for example, when a character is frightened. Others, though, are simply used as we might use them as swear words today. Non-religious readers should be aware that the novel is not religious in itself, but because of its setting it does make many references to God, Jesus, the saints, and Catholic customs of the time. The novel also contains some sexual crudeness. Although there is no sex, there are a couple of vulgar references to female anatomy, and there is one brief but possibly disturbing scene of physical sexual harassment. All that said, I think it's important to understand that I believe that Coats' use of this kind of content is meant to be true to the times and the characters, not to be gratuitous.
On a minor note, I did find myself confused quite often in this novel. Coats's style is to avoid spelling things out for the reader but to allow the reader to understand through context clues. Although this may be an effective strategy at times, I was usually unable to grasp her meaning when she did this. Some of the time I was confused because she chose to convey ideas and information through understatement, and other times I was confused because the medieval diction she used was so foreign to me that I had no way to understand without taking the time to look up words.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.jandersoncoats.com/
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
Wolf Hollow, by Lauren Wolk
*A NYT Bestseller; 2017 Newbery Honor Book; 2017 Jane Addams Children's Book Award Honor Book; Winner of the 2016 New England Book Award; Winner of the Catholic German Children and Youth Book Prize; ALA Notable Children's Book; NPR Best Book of the Year; Booklist Best Book of the Year; Short-listed for the Waterstones Award and the Carnegie Award; Entertainment Weekly Best Middle Grade Book of the Year; Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year; Shelf Awareness Best Book of the Year; School Library Journal Best Book of the Year; Wall Street Journal Best Children's Book of the Year*
Why this book is worth considering:
Although this is a middle grade book with a protagonist of only 11 years old, its themes and characters embrace a broader audience than intended. Most of the supporting characters are adults or teens, and the story is weighty and somewhat sad. Yet it beautifully addresses important themes of truth, consequences, justice, and bullying, which are meaningful to all readers. Parents will find nothing of concern in this novel, except perhaps for the sobering ending, which includes two tragic deaths.
Why this book may not be right for your teen:
There are good reasons why this book has won many awards and accolades, but some sensitive readers will find it more disturbing than edifying. It also contains some shocking violence, though it is not out of step with the target audience. The end of the story may also cause frustration, because it doesn't seem like a "fair" one for the characters. Justice does not prevail this time, and the protagonist is left with sorrow and heavy lessons to lead her onward toward maturity. The novel is a good one for readers who enjoy books that make them think and for discussion within a book club or lightweight literature course, because of its meaningful, important themes. It is well-written but not a beachy, fun read.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.laurenwolk.com
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
*A NYT Bestseller; 2017 Newbery Honor Book; 2017 Jane Addams Children's Book Award Honor Book; Winner of the 2016 New England Book Award; Winner of the Catholic German Children and Youth Book Prize; ALA Notable Children's Book; NPR Best Book of the Year; Booklist Best Book of the Year; Short-listed for the Waterstones Award and the Carnegie Award; Entertainment Weekly Best Middle Grade Book of the Year; Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year; Shelf Awareness Best Book of the Year; School Library Journal Best Book of the Year; Wall Street Journal Best Children's Book of the Year*
Why this book is worth considering:
Although this is a middle grade book with a protagonist of only 11 years old, its themes and characters embrace a broader audience than intended. Most of the supporting characters are adults or teens, and the story is weighty and somewhat sad. Yet it beautifully addresses important themes of truth, consequences, justice, and bullying, which are meaningful to all readers. Parents will find nothing of concern in this novel, except perhaps for the sobering ending, which includes two tragic deaths.
Why this book may not be right for your teen:
There are good reasons why this book has won many awards and accolades, but some sensitive readers will find it more disturbing than edifying. It also contains some shocking violence, though it is not out of step with the target audience. The end of the story may also cause frustration, because it doesn't seem like a "fair" one for the characters. Justice does not prevail this time, and the protagonist is left with sorrow and heavy lessons to lead her onward toward maturity. The novel is a good one for readers who enjoy books that make them think and for discussion within a book club or lightweight literature course, because of its meaningful, important themes. It is well-written but not a beachy, fun read.
Literary artistry: * * * * *
I would suggest this book to younger teens / older teens / all teens / no teens.
Author website: http://www.laurenwolk.com
Reviewer: Cheri Blomquist
