Title: Girl Stolen
Author: April Henry
Author's Website: http://aprilhenrymysteries.
ISBN: 978-0-8050-9005-5
Publisher: Henry Holt
Copyright Date: 2010
Genre: SUSPENSE
Reading Level/Interest Age: 10th-12th grade
Awards: Horn Book, 2011 School Library Journal, 2010
Plot Summary: When the blind daughter of Nike president is inadvertently kidnapped by fellow teenager Griffin, during a car theft, teenage Cheyenne finds herself in growing danger as Griffin’s abusive father discovers who she is and decides to hold her for ransom. She is forced to rely on her other senses, and the kindness she perceives from Griffin to help her escape.
Critical Evaluation: April Henry successfully creates a suspenseful story line, however it proved to be slightly predictable as if it had been done before. From the beginning of the novel, it is clear that she is laying the groundwork for a potential alliance, if not friendship, between Griffin and Cheyenne. Henry also weaves very interesting information about being blind and the blind community into this tale of kidnapping, which ultimately makes it a better read. The alternation of reading from the perspective of a blind character, and then one of the potential bad guys, will keep readers engaged until the end.
Reader's Annotation: When a blind teenager is accidentally kidnapped, her life is suddenly in jeopardy. She relies on her other senses and resourcefulness to aid her in her escape.
Booktalking Ideas: The blind community, drugs, abuse
Booktalking Ideas: The blind community, drugs, abuse
Challenge issues if any: There was minimal mention of Griffin’s father cooking meth, which ultimately led to the severe burns on parts of his body. I think this helped to contribute to the readers growing hatred of Roy, and ultimate sympathies of Griffin.
Why did you include this book: I included this book as an opportunity to give exposure to the “suspense” genre. For teens that do not particularly love to read, this engaging book will be sure to keep their attention.
Quote: "Wondering who the boys were on either side. Who was watching her. If they were laughing. She wanted to be cool and graceful, but instead felt clumsy and sweaty. Now with Phantom, Cheyenne walked with poise and speed. He had returned her body to her." pg. 139 Why did you include this book: I included this book as an opportunity to give exposure to the “suspense” genre. For teens that do not particularly love to read, this engaging book will be sure to keep their attention.
No comments:
Post a Comment