Teens read from a curated list of YA novels.
They submit a 500 word review or create fan art related to one of those books.
We post it here and at Kings Park Library.
Teens get 2 hours of volunteer time.
The book that I did a book review on is a fictional story called Panic by Lauren Oliver. The story Panic is about a high stakes game played by seniors in Carp, New York. Once the last day of school ended, Panic began. Panic was a game created in the poor town Carp as there was nothing to do in the summer. It is moderated by two or more judges, which give a series of tests, which the final winner makes off with money donated to the pot, which everyone donates to; it was $67,000 that year. This story was told from two perspectives in third person limited, as you follow a group of seniors that work together to try to win Panic but have difficulties such as family issues, relationships, and a long lasting grudge. I really liked how this book is worded so you can speculate on what could have happened before Laurn Oliver reveals the exact events and people. This makes you question throughout the book who someone really is and how it can change the story. Also, in my experience, I have not read many fictional books with multiple narrators, so I liked that this allows you to see perspectives better with a duo perspective. I also wonder how the author came up with the two main characters? Did she experience what the characters faced at this age, with hardships like family issues? Has she lived in a rundown town in the middle of nowhere? This story also has the main characters trusting each other, or unplanned outcomes could sprout. Even the best plans can go off the rails though, especially with all the twists in Panic, as there are always twists in Panic. In multiple scenarios, the main characters faced what they thought were easy challenges, but the surprise twists make the game a lot more unpredictable and extreme. Another part of the story to look at are the Seniors themselves. They had many motives: most of the players wanted the money, but one player didn’t care about the cash prize, he wanted something different. This all began because of the last game of Panic that happened two years ago. The final game which is the same last event every year is Joust. One of the last two competitors got seriously injured, and her brother decided to get revenge when he got to his Senior year. I think the main idea of the story is that there are good days and bad days, but there's always a way out. Time also moves inevitably, so you should always cherish your moments. I would recommend this book to 12-15 year olds as this book isn’t the longest book, but it has some bad words and other actions that could be considered inappropriate. The book can also be hard to understand sometimes because of the wording. The grammar is correct, but can be hard to follow. I liked this book because it is in a perspective that is relatively new to me, has many twists and places you can imply on what will happen."
"The Taking of Jake Livingston by Ryan Douglass is a scary but deep book about a teenager named Jake who can see ghosts. It’s not just a ghost story, though. It’s also about a lot of serious stuff like being different, dealing with racism, and trying to survive in a world that isn’t always kind. Jake has to deal with all of this while also trying to figure out who he is and what it means to be himself, especially since he's Black and gay. The book mixes scary stuff with real-world issues, making it both creepy and meaningful.
Jake is a 16-year-old who’s different from a lot of people in his school. He can see ghosts, which is already kind of creepy. But on top of that, he also faces a lot of bullying and hate because of his race and his sexuality. He’s trying to get through high school while dealing with people who don’t understand him. This book shows how hard it is to be yourself when it feels like everything around you is against you. Jake’s life is tough, and he’s always worried about being judged for who he is, especially because not a lot of people like or accept people like him.
One of the creepiest parts of the story is the ghost of a kid named Sawyer. Sawyer is dangerous and violent, and his ghost is connected to some really dark stuff in Jake’s life. Sawyer doesn’t just haunt Jake physically, but he also represents all the bad things that have happened to Jake in the past. Dealing with Sawyer’s ghost is like trying to escape from all the trauma and pain that Jake can’t get rid of. It’s like Sawyer is a reminder of all the hurt and bad things Jake has experienced.
What’s really cool about the book is that it doesn’t just focus on the ghosts; it also talks a lot about race and being gay. Jake is constantly dealing with how people see him because of the color of his skin and because he’s not straight. It’s hard for him to find a place where he belongs. He feels different from everyone around him, and sometimes he feels invisible. In a lot of ways, the ghosts he sees represent how he feels—he’s there, but not really seen or understood. It’s like he’s stuck in between two worlds, and no one really knows how to help him.
The way the book is written also makes you feel like you’re inside Jake’s head. It flips between different perspectives, like Jake’s point of view and Sawyer’s ghost story. This makes you understand how hard it is for Jake to deal with everything, but it also shows how things from the past (like Sawyer’s death) can haunt you in real life too. Even though the ghost stuff is supernatural, it’s easy to see how it connects to real-life problems, like how hard it is to deal with loss, fear, and anger.
The main idea of The Taking of Jake Livingston is survival. Jake has to figure out how to keep going even when everything feels like it’s falling apart. It’s not just about fighting off ghosts—it’s about surviving every day when the world is against you. By the end of the book, Jake learns that being strong isn’t about defeating every ghost, but about finding the strength to keep living even when it feels impossible.
In conclusion, The Taking of Jake Livingston is a book about a lot of things—ghosts, trauma, being different, and trying to survive in a world that’s not always kind. It shows that even when everything feels impossible, you can still find a way to keep going. Jake’s story is important because it reminds us that survival isn’t just about surviving ghosts or monsters, but about surviving life, no matter how hard it gets. It’s a book that makes you think long after you finish reading it."
Check out this book from the Fairfax County Public Library catalog!
"'The Poet X" by Elizabeth Acevedo is a powerful and heartfelt novel written in poems that follows the life of Xiomara Batista, a Dominican-American girl navigating her teenage years in New York City. Through her poetry, Xiomara expresses her inner conflicts with her identity, family, and the pressures and expectations placed upon her.
Xiomara struggles with the strict religious expectations set by her mother, Mami, whose deep Catholic faith constantly clashes with Xiomara's frequent questioning and doubt of the religion. Xiomara also navigates through her awakening sexual desires, which her mother deeply disapproves of. These differences in opinion as well as the tension between her desires and her mother's expectations strains her relationship with Mami and creates a relatable narrative for anyone grappling with self-acceptance and the complexities of growing up. It also highlights the challenges many readers face when navigating the pressures of imposed religious beliefs and their own sense of self, making the story resonant for those grappling with the influence of religion on their lives.
Xiomara feels trapped in a life that demands her to be obedient and modest, even as she yearns for freedom and self-expression. This internal conflict is something many readers can relate to, especially those navigating cultural expectations and personal desires. One of the many strengths of the book is how Acevedo uses poetry as a way for Xiomara to express her inner thoughts and opinions, which she doesn’t have a way to convey otherwise. The poems are expressive and meaningful, filled with vivid imagery and powerful emotions. Acevedo’s lyrical style allows readers to feel and understand Xiomara’s emotions, opinions, and struggles better. Each poem serves as a stepping stone in Xiomara’s journey toward self-discovery and growth. Every poem contains depths that help develop the story. The theme of finding one’s voice is significant in the story. Throughout the story, Xiomara discovers her love and passion for spoken word poetry, which becomes a critical outlet for her feelings and experiences. Through her participation in a poetry club, she learns to be brave and stand up for herself, gaining the confidence to share her story with others. This journey of self-acceptance and resilience is inspiring and is a reminder that everyone has a voice worth hearing.
Moreover, "The Poet X" explores the importance of the bonds we create with others, as reflected by Xiomara’s relationships with her friends - Caridad and Isabella - and her twin brother - Xavier. The support and love she receives from some characters contrast the challenges she faces from others, highlighting the significance of having a support system during difficult times. As the novel ends, there is a sense of hope as Mami's relationship with Xiomara and Xavier shows signs of possible gradual improvement, filled with greater understanding and acceptance of one another. Acevedo’s description of these relationships makes the story even more relatable and impactful. Overall, "The Poet X" is a beautifully written novel that explores the struggles and triumphs of growing up. Elizabeth Acevedo blends poetry with a compelling narrative, making Xiomara’s voice resonate with readers of all ages. The book encourages readers to embrace their identities and share their stories, reminding us all of the power of words. Whether you are a poetry lover or just looking for an engaging story about finding oneself, "The Poet X" is a must-read that will leave a lasting impression."
Check out this book from the Fairfax County Public Library catalog!
"The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo is a novel that offers a powerful look into a young girl’s adolescence as she struggles to figure out her own identity and deal with all of the pressures of society, her family, and her peers. It is written in verse, which reflects the young girl Xiomara’s love for poetry and also allows for a unique structure that gives a straight look into the complicated feelings that surround Xiomara’s life. That structure does allow for a quicker read but it is also very impactful because it bares open everything that Xiomara is feeling right onto the page. Sometimes that just involves a couple of haikus about the cafeteria and other times it is about the pain of not being loved because of who you are, which makes for a wide variety of topics to be discussed. The wide range of issues The Poet X deals with, broad and niche issues alike, allows for this book to be very relatable, particularly to young adults. That is part of the reason I think this book is so great because of the way it so delicately gives a voice to someone dealing with these issues or a version of these issues that so many teenagers deal with. Even if you can’t directly relate to Xiomara’s situation, there are aspects that ring true for everyone, and this novel is able to provide some comfort and share that confusion you might be feeling as you’re growing up with all of the expectations around you. Another part of this book that is really interesting is how well-rounded the characters are, and how the reader is able to see them grow throughout the story. Xiomara’s mom is shown to be a strong antagonist toward her, seemingly only caring for Jesus and her religion and leaving Xiomara feeling unloved and like she can’t be her true self, but throughout the book we are shown more than just the cruel side of her. Her mother is shown to care for Xiomara deeply and is very worried when Xiomara goes off on her own as she is shown to have been previously crying. Then, by the end, she even helps Xiomara prepare for her poetry slam. Showcasing both these sides of the mother demonstrates that things in the real world are more than just black and white—they are complicated and have their nuances. I felt that it showcased the importance of opening up to those around you in a really moving way, so that even if you don’t see eye to eye most of the time, that love for each other won’t just go away. This wasn't just true for Xiomara's relationship with her mother, it was also true with her twin brother, her peers, and even her boyfriend Aman. Overall, I really enjoyed how this book emphasized the importance of the relationships you have around you because those are the people that will stick with you no matter what and will be there for you in the hardest times. From Xiomara’s best friend Caridad to her English teacher Ms. Galiano, these are the people that continuously support her and provide her with the ways to express herself fully, something that is a very important message to be shared."
This One Summer
Do you like a fun, immersive summer adventure? If yes, then read this review. This One Summer is a graphic novel Written by Jillian and Mariko Tamaki. The main topic is about two girls named Windy and Rose. These preteens, with one older than the other, have interesting mini adventures, classes and new knowledge about life, with special discoveries. It is set in a town called Awago with one main market and a small population. The age level for this book is in my opinion teen and older.
Age level
This novel might seem friendly at first, but it reveals some dark secrets about life. WARNING: Some of the topics in this book were challenging for me to write about myself, as a twelve year old. These topics were also uncomfortable for me to read about, even though I am pretty mature to be honest. I learned about all of these things from school and other places, but some are really not children friendly topics. For the parents that are currently looking at this, I would strongly not recommend this book for any children younger than 15 years of age.
Main Idea / Topic
The graphic novel “This One Summer” has a pretty disturbing topic. This book shows the not so good things about pregnancy and life. For example, one girl was fazed by an unplanned pregnancy, with the father not being not ready to be a father yet . Windy and Rose experienced puberty and saw all of the bad things that come with it, with some being crimes such as underage drinking. Rose’s parents have been arguing for a long time because of her mom’s inability to have another child. With her dad moving away for a few days for a small break, what will come of her?
Language
Some of the language in this Book is slang and regular words, while most of it is curse words and REALLY inappropriate names for the females. Most people know these words by the time they turn 14 or 15, but whoever reads this book will know them earlier.
Content
This book shows underage people drinking, possibly smoking, and saying curse words. Don't be scared though, because this book is also nostalgic and might possibly have some connections to people. During the whole book, Rose and Windy are having fun, enjoying a nice horror movie or two, and living a simple, summer life. With some kid friendly items in this book, the decision is mostly on the parent or supervisor of the reader. Some people might be prepared to read this content, whilst others may not be.
Who should have access to this book
I believe that this book should be in most places, like high schools or some middle schools. It would be a really good book for mature audiences, from 15 - infinity. This book should by all circumstances not be in an elementary school or younger. I recommend for parents of the reader to read a summary or part of the book before letting their children read it.
Conclusion
I believe that this book should not be available for audiences under 15 to read. This One Summer is about 2 girls named Rose and Windy. They embark on different adventures and journeys, whilst learning about their bodies and puberty. They learn about the hardships of fatherhood and motherhood, while also watching frequent horror movies and eating snacks. This book also contains attempted suicide and underage drinking and smoking. The excessive use of curse words makes me not want to recommend this book to young children. Please look after your children and find out if this book is right for them. Thanks for reading my review of “This One Summer”.
"This One Summer by Mariko Tamaki is a deeply thoughtful and beautifully illustrated graphic novel that captures the emotional complexity of growing up. The story follows Rose, a young girl who spends her summer in the beach town of Awago with her family. Over the course of the novel, Rose experiences the ups and downs of adolescence, friendship, and family, as she begins to realize that growing up is not as simple as it once seemed.
The novel is set during one summer in the small beach town where Rose and her best friend, Windy, usually enjoy their time together. However, this year things are different. Rose is starting to grow up, and her relationship with Windy starts to change as they navigate the challenges of adolescence. The way the friendship begins to shift is a key theme in the book, highlighting how growing up can sometimes mean drifting apart from people who once felt like your closest friends.
While dealing with the emotional turbulence of her friendship with Windy, Rose is also coping with her parents' strained relationship. Her mother is emotionally distant, and her father is withdrawn, leaving Rose to grapple with her feelings of confusion and isolation. As Rose witnesses her parents’ struggles, she becomes increasingly aware that life is more complicated than she previously understood. The story delves into the difficulty of facing adult problems, especially when you are still trying to figure out your own place in the world.
One of the strengths of This One Summer is how it portrays the different emotions that come with growing up. Rose is not just dealing with typical teenage problems like friendship struggles, but also the deeper, more difficult feelings of loneliness, sadness, and helplessness. These emotions are made even more poignant by the fact that she doesn't fully understand them yet. This lack of understanding is something many readers, particularly young adults, can relate to, as they often find themselves in situations where they don’t know how to express or even recognize their own emotions.
The illustrations in This One Summer are equally important in conveying the emotional weight of the story. The art is done in soft, muted colors, which create a nostalgic feeling and add to the sense of melancholy that permeates the story. Tamaki’s illustrations are simple, yet powerful, with many pages containing minimal dialogue, allowing the images to speak for themselves. This is especially evident in the scenes where Rose is alone, reflecting on her feelings, as well as in moments when the story’s themes of isolation and emotional distance are emphasized. The illustrations help readers feel the quiet sadness and confusion that Rose is going through.
Another key aspect of the book is its exploration of the adult world through Rose’s eyes. As Rose watches her parents struggle, she begins to realize that adults don’t have all the answers and that relationships can be messy. This theme is shown in a subtle but powerful way, as Rose comes to understand that her parents’ problems are not her fault, but they still have a huge impact on her. The book doesn’t sugarcoat the reality of family issues but instead shows how they affect children, even when they aren’t directly involved.
The ending of This One Summer is bittersweet but realistic. There’s no sudden, dramatic conclusion where all the problems are solved, but instead, there’s a sense of gradual change and growth. Rose doesn’t figure everything out by the end of the summer, but she learns that growing up is a process that takes time, and it’s okay to not have all the answers right away. This open-ended conclusion makes the story feel authentic, as it reflects the real, ongoing process of self-discovery and change that comes with growing up.
Ultimately, This One Summer is a deeply reflective and moving exploration of the challenges of adolescence. It deals with themes such as friendship, family, and personal growth in a way that feels both genuine and"
"Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim is a really engaging young adult book that mixes Asian folklore with elements of classic fairy tales. The story follows Shiori'anma, the youngest princess of Kiata, who is bold and headstrong. Everything changes when her stepmother, Raikama, finds out that Shiori has some magical powers.
The main part of the story kicks off when Raikama places a curse on Shiori's six brothers, turning them into crimson cranes and sending Shiori off to a faraway place. As part of the curse, Shiori has to wear a magical walnut bowl that hides her face, and she can't speak. Every time she does, there's a chance that one of her brothers will lose their life. It’s quite a dramatic situation that Shiori must navigate.
Lim does a great job of weaving in themes of family love, resilience, and self-sacrifice throughout the book. There are also hints of the Grimm fairy tale The Six Swans, but Lim adds her special twist with dragons, magical items, and enchanted pearls that keep things fresh and exciting.
A cute addition to the story is Kiki, Shiori's magical paper crane friend. Kiki brings a lot of humor and charm, lightening the mood as Shiori faces her challenges. The world of Kiata is beautifully imagined, inviting readers into its cultural richness and mythical beings. Lim paints vivid pictures of various settings, from lively towns buzzing with activity to quiet, secluded islands, making it easy for readers to get lost in Shiori's adventure.
The book also dives into the pressures that come with being a woman in society, focusing on Shiori's battle for independence as a princess. Her journey towards finding her voice and standing up for herself makes her a relatable and captivating character. The connections she has with her brothers, the dragon Seryu, and her fiancé Takkan add more layers to her character development.
Each of Shiori’s brothers has their own unique personality, which adds richness to their relationships and keeps the story dynamic. Raikama, the villain, is not just evil; she’s a complex character whose choices create tension in the plot.
Lim’s writing strikes a nice balance between poetic descriptions and lively details, blending whimsical storytelling with suspenseful moments. The love story between Takkan and Shiori adds a sweet touch to the overall narrative, making it an even more enjoyable read.
Six Crimson Cranes is notable in the young adult fantasy scene because it builds a detailed world that readers can easily get into. The universe is well-crafted, making it enjoyable for its audience and accessible for all types of readers.
Throughout the story, themes of identity, bravery, and the importance of family bonds resonate strongly. Shiori’s growth as she fights to save her brothers forms the emotional heart of the book.
Lim merges elements of Western fairy tales with East Asian folklore, creating a unique reading experience.
Her focus on cultural details helps ground the story, making Kiata feel authentic and real.
The themes of love and perseverance shine brightly in the narrative, showing how strong family ties and personal grit can help someone overcome obstacles. The magical aspects, like the enchanted pearls and the dragon Seryu, bring an exciting layer to the tale.
In the end, Six Crimson Cranes is a captivating story that blends the magic of traditional fairy tales with the depth of Asian mythology. Elizabeth Lim’s wonderful writing, strong characters, and intricate plot come together to deliver a story that is not just fun to read but also makes you think. This book is definitely one that young adults will enjoy and remember, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a mix of magic, adventure, and heartfelt connections."
"Six Crimson Cranes is an entertaining fantasy book by Elizabeth Lim. This book follows the journey of Shiori, the princess of Kiata. Shiori tries to keep her magical abilities a secret but one day she loses control and misses her arranged wedding. She also attracts the attention of her stepmother Raikama who realizes that Shiori has magic. Her stepmother then banishes her far from her home kingdom and then casts a spell that will kill her brothers who have been turned into cranes if she speaks. Shiori is poor, lost, alone, and voiceless. The story follows Shiori as she picks herself up, determined to try to break the spell, save her brothers, and return home.
Six Crimson Cranes has an engaging story, interesting characters, and fantastic worldbuilding. The plot is original and provides a fresh take on the fantasy genre. The pace of the book is quick, and the chapters rarely feel prolonged. The book rarely strays from the central plot and maintains a clear focus. The book is just long enough to convey the main story and does not feel bloated with too much material. The book does not overwhelm you with excessive lore or too many characters. The tone is dark enough that it doesn’t feel like a story for children yet not too dark that it is unappealing to the average reader. The book is creative and takes many unexpected turns. The twists are surprising yet none of them feel like they came out of nowhere. The action sequences are exciting and intense with none of them feeling repetitive or underwhelming. The mysteries of the book are captivating and keep you reading until you find the answers. The ending is satisfying and resolves the main plot.
Each character in Six Crimson Cranes is interesting and memorable. Shiori is an appealing main character, and I liked following her character development throughout the story. The six brothers are unique, and each brother has a distinct personality. Kiki, the magical bird, might be my favorite character, because Kiki is loyal and wise and helps Shiori through each part of her journey. The romance in this book is enjoyable and does not feel forced. The villains are threatening and keep the plot moving. The side characters are enjoyable and do not clutter the story.
The worldbuilding in this book is the best part of it. The author’s depiction of magic is spectacular, and it is never underused or inconsistent. Each location in this book brings something new to the story and brings out a sense of wonder and enchantment. The book has vivid and striking descriptions that make you feel as if you were present in the fantastical world that the story takes place in. Notably, the food descriptions make you feel like you're actually sitting down to the festival feasts yourself. If you like fantasy novels that offer romance and mystery, then I would recommend that you read Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim. Your time will be well spent in the many castles, festivals, and fantasies that Six Crimson Cranes offers."
"The book I chose to review is Panic by Lauren Oliver. It revolves around a high-stakes game called Panic, played by the graduating seniors of a small town named Carp. The story is narrated by two players, Heather and Dodge, each with their own motivations for competing. Dodge enters the game seeking revenge, while Heather ultimately participates for the prize money. In Panic, there is more at stake than just money.
Regarding the plot, the book kept me hooked, leaving me eager to find out what would happen next. I thought the book was fast paced and the plot never really slowed down. Each time I finished a chapter from one character’s point of view, I had to wait until their next chapter to find out what happened next, which kept me eagerly turning the pages. The vivid descriptions of the challenges and setting allowed me to create a clear mental image, making the story feel immersive and engaging. l also didn’t expect the plot twists. Finding out that Bishop was a judge completely shocked me! I was also not expecting Nat and Heather to plot against Dodge, even though it was for his safety and Ray’s.
I enjoyed Heather's character development. She initially joined the game out of heartbreak over her ex, but over time, she started to play for what really mattered: never going back for Fresh Pines. Heather, Lily (Heather's little sister), and Krista (Heather's mom) lived in Fresh Pines until Heather decided to take her little sister and leave. They ended up on the run at first and then living at Anne's house (Heather's boss). Heather's change in what she was playing for shows that her character matured. Her fears of returning to Fresh Pines act as fuel that helps her win Panic.
I also enjoyed Dodge's perspective. His determination to avenge his sister is what drives him to win Panic. Years earlier, his sister, Dayna, competed in Panic and made it to the final challenge, Joust. This high-stakes showdown requires two players to drive their cars toward each other, with the first one to swerve losing the game. The reader can see the lengths Dodge will go to get his revenge. This shows that he is someone that will do anything to get what he wants. I enjoyed seeing how Dodge grew closer to Bishop, Heather, and Nat. Their friendship became an important message in the book, highlighting the value of connection and support during difficult times.
The book ended happily in my opinion. Heather did not have to go back to Fresh Pines, and Dodge found people he could trust. Both characters really develop over the course of the book. We can also see the heavy weight of Panic being lifted off of their shoulders in the last chapter where they are at the beach, where Panic started. Heather ends up winning Panic, and splits the money with Nat and Dodge. Heather states "I could sense that tomorrow the weather would turn again, and the air would be edged with cold." Meaning that their feeling of calm and relief was only temporary. All in all, I really liked reading this book."
"Panic by Lauren Oliver is a young adult novel about hope and fear. Panic is a game played by high school seniors who, throughout the summer, compete in increasingly terrifying experiences for a chance to win a substantial cash prize. For Heather, entering the game was a spur-of-the-moment decision, but she wants to win the money so she and her sister can finally get away from their mom and the trailer park. Heather wants a better future and to her, that means getting out of Carp. Dodge on the other hand enters the competition to win Panic at all costs to get revenge for his sister. He feels that the person who hurt his sister deserves to pay and feels The book was interesting and well-paced. Even with all the characters they are well-developed and layered, and their personalities are effectively illustrated. While there was a bit of romance it did not play a large role in the plot which was refreshing. Heather evolved a lot in the story as she started weaker and uncertain but towards the end when she discovered her purpose she became very fearless and showed what she would do to protect the people she loves. I did not like Dodge as much because even though I could understand why he wanted revenge he failed to see that his sister was not suffering as much as he thought she was and did not need a hero. I also felt that Nat was overlooked in the story because even though she was also entered in Panic and was alongside both Dodge and Heather, you never got to see her perspective which I felt left a gap in the characters. Nat also didn't have as much of a reason for why she entered Panic which I feel was an oversight. I liked Bishop as a supporting character because he played the best friend of Heather and the relationship between them is significant as Heather finds her passion. The characters were realistic, very emotional and relatable. The setting was perfect for the game as the characters needed to be at rock bottom to be truly driven and have a fear of doing nothing with their life. The small town atmosphere is claustrophobic and most of the characters want the money so they can leave the small town. Oliver does a good job at making it seem as though winning Panic is the only way to escape the town which adds an urgency to the book. I think the author does a good job highlighting the desperation the characters feel in the book and shows how important Panic is to the town. The challenges that were created for the game are very gripping and intense which made the book hard to put down. The challenges were designed to push the players to their limits but there were no consequences for anybody even when people got hurt. I did think that it was a bit unrealistic since people had died playing this game and no one had stopped it. The ending wasn't the best because the story ended abruptly compared to the whole story. Overall I think it was a good book and I would rate it 3.5 stars as it was thrilling and had good characters but some of the plot was unrealistic."
"The Hate U Give is a young-adult novel centered around an African American girl named Starr and her experience as a witness of police brutality within her neighborhood, Garden Heights, in contrast to the seemingly unaware community at her 45-minute away high school. The book covers topics ranging from racial discrimination, black culture, advocating, and the dangers of advocating to gang violence and poverty. I found this book to be an incredibly impactful and powerful read due to the wide range of social issues that it successfully covers through the perspective of a girl my age. The book takes you through a journey of emotion and makes you contemplate the challenges of activism. It raises the question of what power your voice truly carries and how it can help to bring justice. It also showcases how the suppression of voices is one of the greatest offenses. As stated by Starr’s attorney, Ofrah, throughout the novel, “Your voice is your greatest weapon”. Primary and crucial themes that I dissected within the novel included the importance of your perspective and voice, the implications of prejudice and vocal silencing, the meaning of bravery, the role of community, and how stereotypes can skew decision making.
One thing that particularly stood out to me about the novel was how this story was told. The story itself is pretty hard-hitting, but it is told alongside humor and has hints of brightness along that way that contrast both good and bad. In respect to Garden Heights, there is a realistic bittersweet feeling that Starr has in her depiction. Looking past the lurking drug issues, active gangs, gun shots, and need for chain-link fences in front of homes for safety purposes, there are many positives within the community. The community connection fosters a homely, positive atmosphere despite any of the circumstances. The community goes through all of the trials and tribulations together. An elder neighbor’s famous red velvet cake, Starr’s father’s store, the restaurant Starr always gets take-out from for her father where the owner gives neighbor kids free food all the time, the barber across from the store, DeVante being taken in, and the community coming together to stand up for Khalil after his murder.
Organisms rely on communication. From our cells configuring to maintain homeostasis based on feedback signals sent within the body to interpersonal interactions, we constantly communicate our needs. Due to the fact that communication is so vital on our plane of existence, your voice in everything is one of the most important attributes of you. Your voice allows you to express your morals, beliefs, goals, and desires: all that lies within. That voice doesn’t have to be “vocal” either, it can be manifested through actions. The Hate U Give demonstrated how using one’s “voice” can deeply affect others. Starr and her contemporaries used their voices to protest the brutality displayed by officer 115. Starr’s friend Hailey used her voice to manipulate her friends. Chris used his voice to support Starr. Officer 115 used his actions, and thus his voice, to kill an innocent boy. The court used their voice to deliver a verdict of not guilty. Voices can be ignored, but they are there and they deserve to be heard and fought for."
"Starr Carter lives in two different worlds: the poor, predominantly Black neighborhood of Garden Heights, where she was raised, and the wealthy, mostly white private school she attends. She has learned to switch between these identities to survive, but her world shatters when she witnesses the fatal police shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil. As the only witness, Starr is forced to confront the realities of systemic racism and decide whether to speak out, knowing the consequences could endanger her and her family.
The novel follows Starr’s journey as she wrestles with grief, trauma, and activism pressures. Through her, Thomas examines the criminalization of Black victims, the media’s role in shaping narratives, and the deep-rooted prejudices in American society.
One of the biggest strengths of The Hate U Give is its compelling and authentic voice. Starr is a relatable, well-rounded protagonist whose struggles feel deeply personal and universal at the same time. Her emotions—grief, anger, guilt, and fear living in a “ghetto neighborhood” while going to a predominantly white school, her “racist” friends, the cross between her home life and school life, her struggles—are raw and real, making her journey incredibly impactful. The novel also excels in its portrayal of family. Unlike many YA books focusing solely on teenage protagonists, Thomas gives Starr’s family a strong presence. Her parents, Maverick and Lisa, are loving and supportive, yet flawed, making them feel like real people rather than background characters. Their dynamic adds depth to the story, emphasizing the importance of community and resilience.
Another major strength is how the novel tackles complex social issues in a way that is both accessible and thought-provoking. Thomas doesn’t shy away from difficult conversations about race, privilege, and activism, but she presents them in a way that encourages discussion rather than overwhelms the reader. The book is especially effective in showing how racism isn’t just about overt acts of hatred—it’s also about subtle microaggressions, stereotypes, and systemic inequality.
While The Hate U Give is an outstanding novel, one minor criticism is that some side characters could have been more developed. For example, Starr’s boyfriend, Chris, plays an important role in her journey, but his character sometimes feels a bit underexplored. Similarly, some of Starr’s friends, like Hailey and Maya, could have had more depth to make their relationships with Starr feel even more complex and dynamic. Additionally, the pacing in the middle of the book slows slightly, making certain sections feel drawn out. Some scenes feel repetitive, particularly in Starr’s internal struggle about speaking out, which could have been streamlined to maintain the novel’s momentum. While these are minor flaws, they slightly affect the novel’s overall flow and character development. However, these issues do not take away from the novel’s powerful message and emotional depth.
Overall, The Hate U Give is a powerful and necessary novel that sheds light on important social issues while telling a deeply personal and emotional story. I highly recommend for readers who enjoy contemporary fiction that challenges perspectives and sparks meaningful conversations."
""The Hate U Give" by Angie Thomas is a really important book that everyone should read. It's about Starr, a 16-year-old black girl who sees her unarmed childhood friend Khalil get shot by a white cop. While in Garden Heights, her neighborhood with a lot of African American kids, she makes an effort not to act like her white peers at school, including the way she dresses, wears her hair, and speaks, in order to avoid being labeled as “too white.” While at Williamson, her private school, Starr also tries her best to avoid acting the way she would in Garden Heights because she was afraid of being labeled as stereotypically black. Starr and Khalil were childhood best friends who shared their first kiss and both lived in Garden Heights. Throughout the story, the media tries to paint Khalil in a bad light, claiming that he was a drug dealer and acted aggressively toward the cop. After Khalil passed away, Starr felt guilty for losing touch and growing apart with him before his death. Starr’s school is a mostly white school, and over time she notices that she has to deal with casual racism and mean comments even by her friends. The book talks about big issues like police brutality, racial profiling, and the Black Lives Matter movement. The book reminds me of the The Black Lives Matter movement in 2020 because it was a global protest against police brutality and racial injustice based on the murder of George Floyd. In 2020, George Floyd was murdered by a white police officer. Because of this, the movement became really popular in Washington D.C., where many people of different ethnicities stormed the capital in protest against police brutality.This book was released earlier than the BLM movement , proving that it accurately reflects some of the dangers that have been around for years and are still present today. As someone who is also a minority, I noticed a lot of similarities between Starr's life and how society is today. It has become really common for some people to not understand cultures, and to blatantly use racism in their day-to-day lives. This book is really important, especially now. I also saw a lot of connections between what black people go through in the book and what immigrants face in the United States today. The same racism that hurts black people also hurts immigrants, like with the current deportation movement that started as part of Donald Trump’s political campaign. The book shows how racism can be subtle, but still hurtful. It made me think about some biases and stereotypes that have been placed on me and how I can be a better ally and become an advocate for peace and equality at my school by treating everyone with kindness. The Hate U Give was a call to action that reminds people that we need to listen to and support each other, and fight for justice. This book really stood out to me because it made me see things from a new perspective, and it inspired me to want to take action against different types of injustices that some people might face, like being treated differently because of their skin color, religion, or sexual orientation. I also watched the movie, which starred Amandla Stenberg as Starr and Sabrina Carpenter as Hailey, Starr’s friend, and I thought the movie was good but not as comparable to the book because the book’s words had more weight and depth and the movie was kind of inaccurate to some of the details in the book."
“The Hate U Give” by Angie Thomas follows Starr Carter, a 16-year-old girl who witnesses her friend Khalil’s fatal shooting by a police officer. Since Khalil was unarmed, his death sparked protests and debates about police violence and racial injustice. Starr faces pressure to speak out while fearing for her safety and dealing with the complexities of her identity in her black neighborhood and predominantly white school. As she was the only witness in the shooting, Starr must navigate the challenges of speaking out for justice while dealing with the fear of retaliation from both police and local gangs. Starr’s journey is one of self-discovery, as she learns to find her voice and stand up for what is right, despite the personal and societal obstacles she faces. Consequently, the main themes of the book revolve around racial injustice, police brutality, and the importance of protesting for your beliefs. The book also explores the impact of discrimination on individuals and communities, emphasizing the need to revolutionize these inequitable norms. In addition, the relationship between race and identity is explored as Starr struggles to navigate where she stands socially. While the mood tends to be heavy and intense, it can also be funny and faithful. The characters are genuine and share intimate moments with the audience. With the help of Starr’s first-person narration, she produces raw emotion; overall making it easier for the audience to understand and digest serious topics. With heavy themes around police brutality and systemic racism, however, Starr’s emotion tends to fluctuate with the events occurring in the book. Nonetheless, Starr’s proactive and powerful decisions do not change. As she continues to find herself, Starr becomes more certain of what she wants out of Khalil's case. Overall, this book takes you on an emotional roller coaster, but in exchange, it leaves you with a lasting impact. Thomas writes with raw honesty and empathy, in point of fact to digest the racism and injustice that Starr and her community face. Thomas uses a mix of informal, relatable language and powerful imagery that resonates with readers. The dialogue feels authentic, capturing the voices of the characters and their experiences. Thomas also incorporates slang and cultural references that reflect the community Starr comes from, making the book feel realistic and immersive. Overall, her choice of words helps convey the emotional weight of the story and the urgency of the issues it tackles. The characters are well-developed, and their interactions feel authentic. Each character has their own distinct personality, background and personal growth throughout the story. Not only does it help to understand the circumstances of their lives, but the in-depth characters keep the book more exciting. Despite the overall moments of heartbreak, there is also humor and hope incorporated with the help of diverse characters. All in all, this book is a must-read as it summarizes the struggles of day-to-day black adolescents. I would recommend this book to open-minded individuals who are willing to learn about the reality of black communities. It is a book that deals with heavy issues and will definitely keep you entertained and intrigued."
