Grown - Tiffany D. Jackson

 

Author Selection

I loved this novel. I couldn't put this book down, I think I finished the entire book in under two days. I think the mystery of this novel (I know that I just said I didn't like the last mystery I read) is so well established. I think this is in part due to Jackson's writing style. One of parts of the novel that got me that is when the main character was second guessing if her best friend was actually real or if she was a figment of her imagination. The story revolving around a young girl who wants to be a famous singer, but is caught up in the reality of being famous. The male R&B singer that she's been obsessed with for years, turns out to be a manipulative and abused person that used his fame to control those around her and she has to try and expose him to stay safe. I think this book is written in a such a compelling way that it makes you want to start the next chapter right away. I also like that the end of the novel has a note that says that this book is not directly inspired by any one music artist, but there are several major music artists that have been exposed doing similar actions. 

I think this book is extremely relevant to teens, even if they don't realize it. There are so many scandals about famous music artist, not just in Rap and Hip-hop. I think this book would be important for tons of students to read because of two major reasons. 1). I think it's important for teens to see the dangers of being famous. There are so many instances of people using their fame to abuse others. There are so many celebrities that teens want to emulate, and this issue has only become more prevalent with the popularity of YouTubers among teens. I mean, there are even famous YouTubers that I enjoy their content. But, there has always been a danger when chasing fame. and 2). I think this book teaches teens about using their voice to establish their own thoughts and beliefs. That it is important for you to stand up and speak out for what you believe. Because eventually, you have to grow up. 

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