Anything But Okay
Published by: Scholastic
Release Date: 09/03/2019
Pages: 352
ISBN13: 978-1338177589
OVERVIEW
Just because it’s trending, doesn’t mean it’s true…
When a bad decision goes viral, a powerful story unfolds about dealing with mental illness, surviving war, and finding courage in the face of hate.
Life has suddenly turned chaotic for high school student Stella since her brother, Rob, got home from his second tour of duty in Afghanistan: her school is on edge with ethnic tensions and her brother seems to be suffering from post-traumatic stress but will not talk about it. But when Rob's anger finally spirals out of control, Stella realizes she has to find the courage to take a stand against the forces of hate in her hometown. Ages 12 and up
PRAISE
“This novel effectively addresses timely and relevant topics that teens are facing. VERDICT: A great choice for any YA collection.”
—SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL
“Littman... skillfully reveals Rob's thoughts and feelings as a veteran desperately waiting for help from the VA, while also intertwining Stella's perspective as a white girl who is growing in her understanding of her own identity. With well-developed characters, Littman explores growth and personal relationships alongside pain, mental illness, and social issues—showing how people can come together to heal.”
—KIRKUS REVIEWS
“Told through Stella’s first-person narrative, Rob’s letters to a veteran pal, and police interviews, this novel by Littman (Backlash) tackles the current sociopolitical climate with multifaceted, redeemable characters.”
—PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
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