Honors: BCCB Blue Ribbon Book
Review: Stoner and Spaz is a well-written young adult book and challenges stereotypes and judgments people, especially, teenagers, make about each other. Ben, a high school student, has Cerebral Palsy. He meets Colleen, who while not physically disabled, has her own obstacles; she is a drug addict and has very low self-esteem. The unlikely pair become friends and even have a few romantic interactions. Colleen helps Ben see that it his perception of himself that is limiting his life, even more than his physical disability.
Opinion: This was a great read and I would recommend it to young adults. It is important that the main character has a disability, but he is portrayed like a typical teenage boy. He has a bit of sarcastic attitude, has a mischievous side, but overall just wants friendship and love. It was powerful to see Ben begin to become more social and uninhibited, while Colleen, the person without a physical limitation, stays stuck in her destructive habits while Ben moves to a more positive lifestyle.
Ideas: This book, or excerpts from the book can be used to fuel discussions in class, especially those about stereotypes and judgments made about people.
No comments:
Post a Comment