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bibliomich's review against another edition
hopeful
inspiring
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Garvey's Choice is a fast-paced novel in verse that is appropriate for elementary and middle grade students. Nikki Grimes tackles important themes such as body image, toxic messages from parents, and moderate (verbal) bullying. This book would be an excellent introduction to the genre and would be a great addition to a classroom library.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Fatphobia, and Body shaming
bickie's review against another edition
3.0
Written in Japanese "tanka" verse, though that is not obvious unless you are looking for it.
Not a challenging text; everything is laid out there in a way that makes a reader think that Garvey is awfully self-aware and open about his feelings. That said, his feelings are relatable. Garvey's dad really wants him to be athletic like his older sister, but Garvey loves science fiction books and listening to music. His mom teaches him chess, and he plays that with his best friend. Garvey is teased at school for being overweight, and he eats to soothe himself. Once Garvey joins the chorus after some initial trepidation, he finds something he is good at, makes people look at the person inside rather than his body, and gains his father's approval.
Not a challenging text; everything is laid out there in a way that makes a reader think that Garvey is awfully self-aware and open about his feelings. That said, his feelings are relatable. Garvey's dad really wants him to be athletic like his older sister, but Garvey loves science fiction books and listening to music. His mom teaches him chess, and he plays that with his best friend. Garvey is teased at school for being overweight, and he eats to soothe himself. Once Garvey joins the chorus after some initial trepidation, he finds something he is good at, makes people look at the person inside rather than his body, and gains his father's approval.
beachybooksok's review against another edition
Would not recommend. Friendships were nice, but the rest was not handled well. The topics were not addressed well and it had a rushed ending.
manda_kaye's review against another edition
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
lmurphy93's review against another edition
5.0
I got this for a $1 from Scholastics and am not disappointed! I am excited to share this story with my class. It is a quick little read, but has such an important message.
emmalen3's review against another edition
4.0
Lovely little book and a nice introduction to Tanka poetry/dispelling the myth that poetry must rhyme. I liked seeing Garvey find his voice but also found the whole thing a little too neat and tidy. Some parts were rather cliché, but for my readers who feel daunted by large books, this is a wonderful starting place.
hayleybeale's review against another edition
4.0
A brief and poignant novel in verse which packs plenty of emotional punch, about a boy finding his place in the world. See my full review here.
alboyer6's review against another edition
4.0
A fantastic novel in verse about a young teen finding himself and trying to find his father's approval. Quick read that is beautifully written.
emily_claire11's review against another edition
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0