 | ON: Content is age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | PAUSE: Know your child; some content may not be right for some kids. |
 | OFF: Not age-appropriate for kids this age. |
 | NOT FOR KIDS: Not appropriate for kids any age. |
So Not the Drama
- By Paula Chase
- Genre: Coming of Age
Common Sense Media says
Race-aware teen series start overflows with plots.
Parents say
Kids say
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that this book deals with some serious topics having to do with race, sexuality, and class. One character deals drugs, another remains snotty until the end, and another threatens several fights. There is some tension between two male characters after one begins to design costumes for the theater department, putting his sexuality in question.
What's the story?
Mina starts high school with one goal: popularity. But when she enrolls in a sociology class, the teacher pushes her to think about her prejudices. She is paired with three very different girls -- a label lover, a quiet girl, and a loud girl from the projects -- and their interactions raise questions about race, class, and popularity. Her pre-existing friendships with a white drama girl, a jock, and a possibly-gay boy also cause Mina (and her clique) to think, debate, and come to more mature resolutions.
Is it any good?
This kickoff to a new series is so thick, it's hard to wade through. The perspective and storylines change constantly, which can be overwhelming for young readers, though all of these characters and plot points will certainly give the author plenty of room to grow her series.
On the plus side, the dialogue, diary entries, and IM exchanges have a lively and authentic feel. ("Come on now. We girls. No one knows more about me than you," Mina tells Lizzie.) And there is plenty to think about -- from race and class issues to the politics of the high school lunch room. The author even includes a readers' group discussion guide.
What families can talk about
Families can talk about Mina's quest for popularity. There have been many stories about teens who think they want to be popular but learn to be real instead; can you think of movies and other books that have that same theme? Why is that so appealing to young readers?
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AGE
i love this book my daughter loves these books by paula chase she wishes she makes them into movies !!!! can you
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AGE
Popularity Aint easy LOL
This was a good book. It teaches alot kids how you should be yourself,stay true. Popularity is something good, but how far some people go for it like wow.
It tells you that you should always be happy for your friend no matter what they are doing. Like Kelly said "popularity aint easy" ( Kelly is a character from the book .)
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| Author: | Paula Chase |
| Book type: | Fiction |
| Genre: | Coming of Age |
| Publisher: | Dafina Books |
| Publication date: | February 27, 2007 |
| Number of pages: | 288 |
| Paperback price: | $9.95 |
| Publisher's recommended age(s): | 14 - 14 |
| Read aloud: | 13 |
| Read alone: | 13 |
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