Book Review: Like Vanessa

LIKE VANESSA by Tami Charles tells the story of an African American eighth-grader pursuing her pageant dreams.

Set in 1983, Vanessa Martin is thrilled when Vanessa Williams is crowned the first black Miss America. When her music teacher encourages her audition for the school’s pageant, she’s reluctant. However, over time she develops the confidence to compete. Told through first person narratives along with beautiful poetry and journal entries, readers will be drawn into Vanessa’s quest.

Librarians will find a large audience for this story of family and friendship. The elements of poverty, racism, and family secrets add depth to the story. Of particular note is the evolving relationship between Vanessa and her music teacher.

Published on March 13, 2018 by Charlesbridge. ARC courtesy of the publisher.

Book Review: Believarexic

BELIEVAREXIC by J.J. Johnson is a powerful autobiographical YA novel tracing a teen’s experience being hospitalized for treatment of eating disorders.

JJ appears to be a normal teenager. She does well in school and she takes dance lessons. She parties with her friends, but she doesn’t appear to be “out of control”. However, JJ knows she has a problem and decides that it’s time to face her inner-demons. Set in 1988, the story follows JJ as she enters a treatment facility for a combination of bulimia and anorexia.

What makes this real-world story particularly compelling is that the story comes directly out of the author’s journals. In addition, the author weaves informational pages into the story for those interested in the specific of her treatment and recovery. It concludes with notes directed at reader who might be suffering from eating disorders.

The thick volume combines a journal style with a free-verse and first person narrative approach making it interesting and quick and appealing to read.

Librarians will find this to be an excellent choice for youth wishing to learn more about the experiences of a teen with eating disorders. Combine it with nonfiction works for a display featuring adolescent risks and preventions.

The novel’s website is an excellent resource for those wishing to learn more about eating disorders and the origins of the novel. It includes links to online resources, the author’s journals, and other bonus materials.

To explore the author’s website, go to http://www.believarexic.com/.

Published by Peachtree Publishers on October 1, 2015.