Thursday, March 17, 2011

Bookanistas: THE MOCKINGBIRDS by Daisy Whitney

Plot without spoilersDaisy Whitney's THE MOCKINGBIRDS tells the story of Alex, a musical prodigy in her junior year at prestigious Themis Academy where the administration can't imagine any student doing harm to another.  So, where can Alex turn when she is date raped?  To the unique form of justice administered by The Mockingbirds.

Literary highlights: In writer circles, there's a great deal of discussion about WHEN a novel should begin (e.g., a little bit before the inciting event to establish a sense of normalcy).  THE MOCKINGBIRDS breaks the mold by opening with an incredible, dramatic, right-into-it-we-go scene that totally works.  And, of course, the artful tie-in of themes and language from the Harper Lee classic To Kill a Mockingbird give this novel a cool literary twist.

Finally, just gotta say: Alex's evolving recollections of that lost night, her moments of uncertainty when she must grapple with her own actions, and her honest struggle with the consequences of pursuing justice are all authentically depicted.  This book feels very realistic and brave--something teen girls should definitely read.

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8 comments:

Lisa Potts said...

Great review! I'm currently reading and almost finished and I've really enjoyed this book.

Aurora Smith said...

This sounds great. its good to have GOOD books for teen girls to read!

Stasia said...

Thanks for stopping by. Daisy Whitney is writing a second Mockingbirds book. Not sure of the pub date but I'm looking forward to reading it!

AimeeLSalter said...

Wow, this sounds great! I'll definitely be picking it up.

Thanks for the tip.

Carolina M. Valdez Schneider said...

It'll be interesting to see what she does with a second book. I wonder where she'll take it? The first one felt so complete! But great review! The Mockingbirds had a nice literary edge to it, but felt totally accessible and relevant.

Margo Kelly said...

sounds great! :)

Stasia said...

Thanks for stopping by Aimee and Margo.
And agreed, Carol, this book has a nice "edge" but is also a fast, intense read.

Sarah Ketley said...

thanks for the links! will have to check them out. i will have a go at the Mockingbirds as well. I have seen it mentioned once or twice before.

Thanks very much,

Sarah