Things I Should Have Known

                                                                                 Book Review:

 

Bibliography-

LaZebnik, C. (2018). Things i should have known. HMH Books for Young Readers.

ISBN- 978-0544829695


Plot Summary- 

Meet Chloe Mitchell, a popular Los Angeles girl who’s decided that her older sister, Ivy, who’s on the autism spectrum, could use a boyfriend. Chloe already has someone in mind: Ethan Fields, a sweet, movie-obsessed boy from Ivy’s special needs class. Chloe would like to ignore Ethan’s brother, David, but she can’t—Ivy and Ethan aren’t comfortable going out on their own so Chloe and David have to tag along.  Soon Chloe, Ivy, David, and Ethan form a quirky and wholly lovable circle. And as the group bonds over frozen yogurt dates and movie nights, Chloe is forced to confront her own romantic choices—and the realization that it’s okay to be a different kind of normal. 

 

Critical Analysis-

This book explores themes of friendship, love, and neurodiversity through the lens of two sisters navigating the complexities of high school relationships. The story revolves around the main characters, Chloe Mitchell, a high school student, and her older sister, Ivy, who has autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Chloe becomes determined to find a suitable boyfriend for Ivy, hoping to provide her with the same kind of fulfilling romantic relationship she sees her peers experiencing. In her quest, Chloe forms an unlikely alliance with a boy named Ethan, who is also on the autism spectrum. One remarkable aspect of the book is its exploration of neurodiversity and the challenges faced by individuals on the autism spectrum. LaZebnik portrays Ivy and Ethan as dynamic characters, highlighting their strengths, vulnerabilities, and unique perspectives. Through their narratives, the novel encourages understanding, empathy, and acceptance of neurodivergent individuals in society. "Things I Should Have Known" examines the complexities of relationships and the different forms they can take. The story explores romantic and platonic relationships, showcasing the bonds between siblings, friends, and potential partners. The book emphasizes the importance of communication, honesty, and mutual respect in fostering healthy relationships. Another aspect explored in the novel is the high school experience and the social dynamics within it. It refers to the pressures, expectations, and challenges faced by teenagers, particularly in the realm of dating and popularity. The story provides a glimpse into the diverse lives and personalities of high school students, challenging stereotypes and promoting inclusivity. It encourages readers to challenge societal norms, embrace differences, and foster understanding and acceptance in their own lives.

 

Review Excerpts-

"LaZebnik hits it out of the park with her story about pretty, popular Chloe and her loving relationship with her older, autistic sister, Ivy... With perceptiveness and ample skill, LaZebnik paints a vivid picture of what the sibling of a person with high-functioning autism might go through. Never resorting to stereotype, she depicts appealing, three-­dimensional characters who flesh out a narrative that is compassionate, tender, funny, and wise all at once. This insightful, well-­written story will entertain readers while inspiring meaningful empathy."   —Booklist, Starred Review 

 "An eye-opening look at autism and those it touches."  —Kirkus, Starred Review

 

Connections-

- The book provides an opportunity to introduce the concept of neurodiversity and foster an inclusive classroom environment. Students can learn about autism spectrum disorder and other neurodevelopmental conditions, discussing the strengths and challenges associated with them.

- Characters in the book navigate their own identities and struggle with self-advocacy. Students can reflect on the characters' journeys and discuss the importance of self-acceptance, self-advocacy, and assertiveness.

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

  Book Review-       Bibliography: Colandro, L. (2014).  THERE WAS AN OLD LADY WHO SWALLOWED A FLY!  (J. D. Lee, Ill.). Cartwheel Books.     Plot Summary: The bestselling Old Lady series created its own version of the original, classic song: there was an old lady who swallowed a fly! In this story, the old lady swallows animals one after another until she ends up with a full house of lovable pets.   Critical Analysis: In this story, the plot is simple yet full of action and nonsense. When reading the text, there is a sense of rhythm and rhyme that makes it easy for students to follow along. The style of writing is simple and repetitive making it perfect for younger readers. The illustrations by J.D. Lee are detailed, hilarious and set the scene for the whole story.       Review Excerpts: Booklist Review- “Although there are many versions of this perennial favorite, this is one of the funniest an...
Read more

Code Talker

                                                                             Book Review: Bibliography- Bruchac, J. (2005). Code talker . Scholastic Paperbacks. ISBN- 978-0142405963 Plot Summary-  Throughout World War II, in the conflict fought against Japan, Navajo code talkers were a crucial part of the U.S. effort, sending messages back and forth in an unbreakable code that used their native language. They braved some of the heaviest fighting of the war, and with their code, they saved countless American lives. Yet their story remained classified for more than twenty years. Now Joseph Bruchac brings those stories to life through the riveting fictional tale of Ned Begay, a sixteen-year-old Navajo boy who becomes a code talker. His grueling journey is eye-opening and inspirin...
Read more
  Book Review-   Bibliography: Wiesner, D. (2001).  THE THREE PIGS . Clarion Books.   Plot Summary: This version of the classic 3 little pigs story starts out seemingly familiar as three pigs are preparing to build houses out of straw, sticks and bricks. But when the Big Bad Wolf comes looking for a snack, he huffs and puffs the first little pig right out of the story and into the realm of pure imagination! From there begins a freewheeling adventure as they wander and fly through other stories, encountering a dragon and a cat with a fiddle, among others. This familiar tale will never be the same old story again.   Critical Analysis: The fable contains many common features associated with the fairy tale, with some fun surprises. This story is told from the point of view of the three pigs.  The pigs eventually join up with others, to travel to different stories and settings.  Once the characters leave their story, they inherit word...
Read more