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A review by jennifermreads
XVI by Julia Karr
4.0
Whoa. This book tackled some serious issues. Sex. Religion. Abuse. Privacy rights. Rights period.
Julia Karr developed Nina as a character so that the reader could grow and change with her. Nina’s unending faith in her life and society are a bit naïve – but this is the innocence of childhood, right? And, as the author shows, turning 16 can mean more than hormonal changes, there can be a wider growth as well.
I fear that a number of teens may be pulled away from the powerful messages by parents who are being a tad overprotective – and the religious jabs may be an additional deterrent for parents. Is it uncomfortable to think about being “ready for sex” at 16? Heck yeah! Is it difficult to face a questioning faith? Oh yeah! Is it tricky to question society and societal norms? Sure is! But Ms. Karr approaches all this with a reality and honesty that is refreshing. If even one teen questions their beliefs, ethics, and decisions, she will have succeeded.
I liked this enough to want to read the next installment and discover what happens when Nina meets her father. I requested the purchase for my library.
Julia Karr developed Nina as a character so that the reader could grow and change with her. Nina’s unending faith in her life and society are a bit naïve – but this is the innocence of childhood, right? And, as the author shows, turning 16 can mean more than hormonal changes, there can be a wider growth as well.
I fear that a number of teens may be pulled away from the powerful messages by parents who are being a tad overprotective – and the religious jabs may be an additional deterrent for parents. Is it uncomfortable to think about being “ready for sex” at 16? Heck yeah! Is it difficult to face a questioning faith? Oh yeah! Is it tricky to question society and societal norms? Sure is! But Ms. Karr approaches all this with a reality and honesty that is refreshing. If even one teen questions their beliefs, ethics, and decisions, she will have succeeded.
I liked this enough to want to read the next installment and discover what happens when Nina meets her father. I requested the purchase for my library.