Common Sense Media Review
By Mandie Caroll
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Compelling story of teen sex assault, healing power of art.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
THE ART OF BREAKING THINGS tells the story of 17-year-old Skye Murray, a young artist from a small town outside Philadelphia who lives with her single mom and 12-year-old sister, Emma. When Skye's 12, her mother's boyfriend, Dan, sexually assaults her on a camping trip. She learns to push away the memories with partying and, later, sex. Dan re-enters the family's life when she's 17, and the confusion and pain from the assault comes rushing back. Skye engages in increasingly reckless behavior as her anger intensifies. When Dan starts taking an interest in Emma, Skye thinks she must give up her art school scholarship to stay at home and protect her little sister. Can Skye find the courage to tell her mother what Dan did to her and begin to heal?
Is It Any Good?
Laura Sibson's coming-of-age novel thoughtfully takes on issues of childhood sexual assault, substance abuse, and consent, as well as the complicated nature of healing from trauma. With its relatable teen characters and evocative, often beautiful prose, The Art of Breaking Things is a realistic story with a relevant message. Though Skye makes some unhealthy choices to cope, she grows towards responsible maturity over the course of the story. Creative teens will especially appreciate how Skye uses art to understand her experiences. Skye is a character that young people will surely root for.
Teens will also benefit from the novel's look at consent in several different situations. The message that consent must be freely and enthusiastically given comes through loud and clear. With its practical treatment of teen sexuality, the book doesn't underestimate or condescend to its young adult readers. A few metaphors can feel contrived, and there are some characters who don't seem to move the story forward, but on the whole, this is a well-written and compelling read.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the intense theme of sexual assault in The Art of Breaking Things. Is it important for kids -- even those who've never experienced sexual assault -- to read these types of stories? Why or why not?
How can art help people deal with their problems? How do you cope with issues? Who can you turn to? What other help is out there?
How does Skye grow over the course of The Art of Breaking Things? What motivates her to make positive changes?
What other books, shows, or movies deal with sexual assault and consent? How might a novel like this be helpful?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Coming of Age
- Topics : School ( High School )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Viking
- Publication date : June 18, 2019
- Number of pages : 400
- Available on : Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated : September 29, 2025
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