BANNED BOOKS, CROP TOPS, AND OTHER BAD INFLUENCES

Anxious and retiring middle schooler Rose Stern is grateful for her parents and BFF, Charlotte—they’re her entire world. But lately she’s been wondering if that’s enough.

Rose’s perspective shifts after meeting new student Talia, who’s moved from New York City to their small Michigan town. Talia, who’s Jewish like Rose, vocally challenges the status quo, even openly questioning their teachers. Rose is in awe. Talia encourages Rose to read a fictionalized account of a Jewish refugee’s tragic experience after being denied entry to the U.S. during World War II. Rose, whose father’s family lost many people during the Holocaust, is deeply moved but later learns that this book, among others, has been pulled from the school library. She’s confused, especially after discovering that Charlotte’s mother is playing a role in the book challenges. Rose feels empowered when she, Talia, and a few other marginalized students form the Banned Books Brigade to read and discuss challenged titles. The topic is timely and sensitively handled, and the discussions the kids have allow for a range of responses, including outrage and understanding. As Rose comes into her own, tensions with Charlotte rise. When Charlotte betrays her, Rose’s parents’ response makes things even worse. The palpable tensions and intensely dramatic emotions feel believable for the age group, setting the scene for a life-changing, life-expanding episode—one in which Rose must find her voice and take charge.

A relevant and riveting story of friendship, books, and personal growth.