Read Between the Lines

Knowles, J. (2015). Read Between the Lines. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press.

 



2016 Quick Picks for Reluctant Young Adult Readers

 

 

Summary

 

This novel follows nine teens and one teacher through the course of a single day. Each chapter tells the story of a new character from their point of view. You are able to see how all the characters are connected to one another. Throughout the day, their stories intertwine with each other. They are all dealing with hidden struggles that others are unaware of. Some of the issues include heartbreak, bullying, family problems, and sexuality. Each character is either being given the middle finger or giving the middle finger. It all starts when Nate's middle finger is broken by the bully in gym and has to be splinted up.

 

Commentary

 

A friend actually recommended this book to me, so I was excited when I saw that it was also on our reading list. I really enjoyed that the reader is able to see that everyone has issues they are dealing with, no matter how perfect their life may appear on the outside. I enjoyed the double meaning behind the title. Reading between the lines is used as slang for giving someone the finger, which is a common theme in this book. However, it can also be used to mean to look closer at something, which is what I think the author wants readers to do. Teens will understand that life is more complicated that it appears and that we often influence other in unknown ways, just like the characters in the book. Our choices can change the course of someone else's day or even life.

 

Jo Knowles Inspiration for the Book