Stargirl, by Jerry Spinelli
The book Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli is about a mysterious girl that enters a public high school, and stands out dramatically. In my opinion Spinelli did a very good job describing the peer pressure of high school, and how much teenagers tend to blend in together. Being different as a teenager is very difficult, people tend to judge you differently. I love it how Spinelli demonstrates the peer pressures of high school by using a strange girl. This book is truly one of my favorites. - Reviewed by M.T., grade 9.
(Librarian's note: check out this book's sequel, Love, Stargirl, just out this year!)
Comments
I liked this book very much because it made me realize that being yourself is what matters most. You shouldn't care what others think. I think that people who are losing hope for themselves, as in they don't think that they're every good enough. This book made me feel very good about myself and it will to many others too.
Reviewed by Emily, Grade 9
Glendale Central Library
This is the perfect story that shows that being you is important. In life there will be people that just don’t accept you for who you are sometimes it’s because they wish they can be as comfortable in there skin as you. This book is best recommended to the ones who need a good motivational story. We get to follow Star Girl in her journey of her battles with being herself. Even if that means she’s a little weird, and corky that’s who she is and will be.
Reviewed by Marta R., Grade 12
Glendale Central Library
I enjoyed this book a lot. I am personally a fan of John Green's writing style so I really liked the way it was written. It really shows Jerry Spinelli's opinions on popularity and love and is very well written. It was a very sweet story and had a very unique plot. The characters were very vivid and relatable. I recommend this to anyone who enjoys a good love story that makes you not want to put the book down.
Reviewed by EB, Grade 9
Grandview Library
Stargirl presents a startling contrast to your average high school love story. All the same issues of popularity, friendship, sports, and crushes are central to the book. Yet it is all presented through a different lens, one that questions the traditional view of these aspects of teenage life. As stargirl fluctuates from popular to unpopular, conforming to social norms and then defying them, Spinelli proves, through the relationship with Leo, that popularity is superficial and individual feelings are what really matters. This book is a fantastic read for any teenager weather they are going into high school, are in high school, or have already left. As the chaotic and confusing school environment is the center of the world for teenage, Stargirl reminds them to ground themselves by staying true to who they are.
Revoewed by Rachel-Ann, Grade 12
Glendale Central Library