Week 4: Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli
Book Summary:
The story’s
problem is centered on Leo, the main character, and his relationship with
Stargirl, an exceptionally kind, giving person who is unique in every way. At
first Stargirl fascinates her peers and is accepted. Eventually her unique
outlook on life and response to situations alienates her from the other
students, and they begin to treat her cruelly.
Leo realizes his need for peer acceptance outweighs his love for
her. Stargirl tries to change to make
Leo happy but is unhappy, and realizes she must let Leo go.
My Impressions:
Most people experience peer pressure and first love. Stargirl captures the
feelings of first love, the power of social pressure and its ability to make
people conform, and how isolating it can be for those who do not fit in socially.
I think back to all the Stargirls from my school days and remember the way they
were treated. I was appalled by the way people treated Hillari dangled Cinnamon
by the tail. If I had read this book as a teenager, I would have had more
insight and tools on how to handle peer pressure and social acceptance.
Professional
Review:
"Part fairy
godmother, part outcast, part dream-come-true, the star of Spinelli's novel
shares many of the mythical qualities as the protagonist of his Maniac Magee.
Spinelli poses searching questions about loyalty to one's friends and oneself
and leaves readers to form their own answers," said PW in our Best Books
citation. Ages 12-up. (May)
Library Uses:
Create a
Stargirl Club whose focus and purpose is to do kind things for other people. Jerry
Spinneli’s website gives ideas on how to start a Stargirl society.
http://www.jerryspinelli.com/stargirl.htm
APA
Reference:
Spinelli, J.
(2000). Stargirl. New York, NY:
Knopf.
Children’s review. (2002, May 6). [Review of the book Stargirl by J. Spinelli]. Publisher’s Weekly.
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