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Fighting Words
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Middle Grade & Children's (2020)Ten-tear-old Della has always had her older sister, When their mom went to prison, Della had Suki. When their mom's boyfriend took them in, Della had Suki. When that same boyfriend did something so awful they had to run fast, Della had Suki. Suki is Della's own wolf -- her protector. But who has been protecting Suki? Della might get told off for swearing at school, but she has always known how to keep quiet where it counts. Then Suki tries to kill herself, and Della's world turns so far upside down, it feels like it's shaking her by the ankles. Maybe she's been quiet about the wrong things. Maybe it's time to be loud.
In this powerful novel that explodes the stigma around child sexual abuse and leavens an intense tale with compassion and humor, Kimberly Brubaker Bradley tells a story about two sisters, linked by love and trauma, who must find their own voices before they can find their way back to each other.
In this powerful novel that explodes the stigma around child sexual abuse and leavens an intense tale with compassion and humor, Kimberly Brubaker Bradley tells a story about two sisters, linked by love and trauma, who must find their own voices before they can find their way back to each other.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 11, 2020
298 people are currently reading
13159 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
26 books2,840 followersKimberly Brubaker Bradley's next book, The Night War, will be published April 9, 2024. She is the author of nineteen previous books, including the Newbery Honor winners Fighting Words and The War that Saved My Life. The sequel to the latter, The War I Finally Won, appeared on many state-award and best-books lists and was described as “stunning” by The Washington Post and “honest” and “daring” by The New York Times. She is also the acclaimed author of She Persisted: Rosalind Franklin. Kimberly and her husband have two grown children and live with their dogs, two highly opinionated mares, and a surplus of cats on a fifty-two-acre farm in Bristol, Tennessee. Visit her at kimberlybrubakerbradley.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,657 reviews
May 7, 2020
As a child I had absolutely no interest in reading books that contained any kind of trauma. I had a kind of sixth sense about it, so throughout the years I studiously avoided Bridge to Terabithia, Julie of the Wolves, and anything else that might possibly be considered serious in some way. This wasn’t because there were any deep-seated issues in my own life that needed addressing. I just happened to be privileged enough to have the choice not to think about serious issues if I didn’t want to (and I didn’t). My best friend had a very different view of things. They liked difficult books with tough issues that embraced the real world and all its ugly flaws. And no doubt, if Fighting Words had been around then, they would have recommended it to me. I would have refused, which is fine because we librarians truly believe that part of our job is to provide the right book for the right reader. Not every 12-year-old is going to be ready for the abuse and pain addressed in Bradley’s latest. But for those kids that want a book can be honest with them about the world, written at their age-level, with funny parts and a happy ending where things get better, this is that book. It ain’t easy but it’s there for you.
Della and Suki are inseparable. Sure Suki is a teenager and Della’s just ten, but they’ve taken care of one another for years, ever since their mom went to prison for cooking meth and her boyfriend, Clifton, took them in. Now that boyfriend’s going to be on trial and the girls are finding their new foster mother, Francine, is a huge improvement. Della’s always had a vague sense of how bad it was to live with Clifton but when Suki attempts suicide one night she realizes she had no idea what her older sister went through. Now Della and Suki have to get the help they need and learn to speak up, even when they’re not sure the world wants to listen to what they have to say.
Sometimes a book comes down to voice. If it’s written in the first person (and this one is) then you better believe in the main character deeply. You’re going to have to identify with them, sympathize with them, and understand them, even when they make stupid mistakes (especially then!). Della has a personality that shines through from page one. It’s a killer first page for a novel, by the way. If you want to kick off a book on a high note, begin it with a fourth grader showing off her new ampersand tattoo (a real one). Right away, you want to know more about this kid. “I got a big mouth. That’s a good thing. It’s excellent.” I kept trying to figure out what she reminded me of. Then it finally struck me. There was something about her that reminded me of The Great Gilly Hopkins. Totally different personality, but the same spark that keeps you reading. I mean, if I can read a book where the main character (who is ten) can deadpan a line like, “Uh-huh. Because I fully believe everything all these government people tell me,” I’m going to want more of it. Even when it gets tough. Even when it’s touching on issues that I never ever want to encounter in my books to this day. It’s like Della takes your hand and couches all the bad parts in such a way where you feel kind of protected from them because she’s protected (except for one very bad time when she isn't).
I was in a meeting a month or so ago, discussing the current crop of novels for 9-12 year olds. In the course of things a co-worker held up a book and mentioned that it had some references to child abuse. Nothing overt or particularly descriptive, but the implications were necessary for the plot. Hearing her say this, I glanced over at my copy of Fighting Words. It got me thinking about the words the author chose to use to describe the sexual abuse of the characters. A person could teach an entire college course on this book’s relationship to the English language. Its own title is no coincidence. Thematically, there is a consistency to this book, not simply in its subject matter and plot, but also in how it is constructed as a novel, that demands closer examination. From the book’s second page, Della tells you that there are words she isn’t supposed to use. But rather than excise them altogether, she changes them. This is in keeping with the book’s examination of what you should, should not, can, and cannot say when you are an abused child. Getting back to what my co-worker said about that other novel, this one is far more explicit in terms of the abuse its main character suffers. It’s not blatantly graphic, but you see far more than you’d expect in a book written for older kids. It is what the author will be blamed for, ultimately, but it is also honest when it points at the world and says, “This happens. It’s awful. Acknowledge this fact.”
Is it a perfect work? Of course not! What is? Honestly, if you’re writing content that is this difficult for kids then you’re going to have to throw your readers a couple bones. Take the foster mother Francine, who wavers on the edge of being too good to be true. She’s got that classic grumpy-adult-with-a-heart-of-gold feel to her, and the sheer amount of time and effort she spends going to bat for Della and Suki can verge on the unbelievable. Still and all, a person has to believe that there are Francines out there in the world. Without her this book would have gone from difficult to intolerable. So I’ll allow for the occasional Francine, sure. Then there are the characters ages. I’m sure there was a lot of internal discussion at the publisher as to whether or not to age up Della. She’s ten in the fourth-grade in a book with issues that are going to get it shelved in middle school and/or YA sections in some parts of the country. Shouldn’t she be twelve? I respect Bradley for keeping Della young, even when she must have been urged to make her older. I mean, it’s not like there aren’t other 10-year-olds out there that have had to grow up early. Stands to reason.
The truth? There are going to be a lot of adults out there who hate this book. Some will simply want it removed from the children’s section and placed in the YA section. I once worked in a library where that very request was leveled at the female circumcision novel No Laughter Here by Rita Williams-Garcia. As a parent, I sympathize, but there’s a moment in this book where Della is told that there are families out there where the kids have never experienced hunger or pain or poverty and it blows her mind. This is a middle grade novel about child sexual abuse. It is not an easy book, and with that subject matter you wouldn’t want it to be. And so this book will be banned somewhere because it dares to show a horrible moment being horrible. You want to protect your children from the truly horrible things in this world? That’s completely understandable, but some kids simply don’t have that luxury. They want to know they’re not alone, while other kids want to understand what other children out there are dealing with. Yes, this is a rough book but it’s also funny and loving and brave. It has the capability to build compassion in the hearts of the kids that don’t want to read books about middle class kids in happy little families all the time. You are free to dislike this book, but don’t take it away from the children who need it. After all, you may never even know who they are.
For ages 10 and up.
Della and Suki are inseparable. Sure Suki is a teenager and Della’s just ten, but they’ve taken care of one another for years, ever since their mom went to prison for cooking meth and her boyfriend, Clifton, took them in. Now that boyfriend’s going to be on trial and the girls are finding their new foster mother, Francine, is a huge improvement. Della’s always had a vague sense of how bad it was to live with Clifton but when Suki attempts suicide one night she realizes she had no idea what her older sister went through. Now Della and Suki have to get the help they need and learn to speak up, even when they’re not sure the world wants to listen to what they have to say.
Sometimes a book comes down to voice. If it’s written in the first person (and this one is) then you better believe in the main character deeply. You’re going to have to identify with them, sympathize with them, and understand them, even when they make stupid mistakes (especially then!). Della has a personality that shines through from page one. It’s a killer first page for a novel, by the way. If you want to kick off a book on a high note, begin it with a fourth grader showing off her new ampersand tattoo (a real one). Right away, you want to know more about this kid. “I got a big mouth. That’s a good thing. It’s excellent.” I kept trying to figure out what she reminded me of. Then it finally struck me. There was something about her that reminded me of The Great Gilly Hopkins. Totally different personality, but the same spark that keeps you reading. I mean, if I can read a book where the main character (who is ten) can deadpan a line like, “Uh-huh. Because I fully believe everything all these government people tell me,” I’m going to want more of it. Even when it gets tough. Even when it’s touching on issues that I never ever want to encounter in my books to this day. It’s like Della takes your hand and couches all the bad parts in such a way where you feel kind of protected from them because she’s protected (except for one very bad time when she isn't).
I was in a meeting a month or so ago, discussing the current crop of novels for 9-12 year olds. In the course of things a co-worker held up a book and mentioned that it had some references to child abuse. Nothing overt or particularly descriptive, but the implications were necessary for the plot. Hearing her say this, I glanced over at my copy of Fighting Words. It got me thinking about the words the author chose to use to describe the sexual abuse of the characters. A person could teach an entire college course on this book’s relationship to the English language. Its own title is no coincidence. Thematically, there is a consistency to this book, not simply in its subject matter and plot, but also in how it is constructed as a novel, that demands closer examination. From the book’s second page, Della tells you that there are words she isn’t supposed to use. But rather than excise them altogether, she changes them. This is in keeping with the book’s examination of what you should, should not, can, and cannot say when you are an abused child. Getting back to what my co-worker said about that other novel, this one is far more explicit in terms of the abuse its main character suffers. It’s not blatantly graphic, but you see far more than you’d expect in a book written for older kids. It is what the author will be blamed for, ultimately, but it is also honest when it points at the world and says, “This happens. It’s awful. Acknowledge this fact.”
Is it a perfect work? Of course not! What is? Honestly, if you’re writing content that is this difficult for kids then you’re going to have to throw your readers a couple bones. Take the foster mother Francine, who wavers on the edge of being too good to be true. She’s got that classic grumpy-adult-with-a-heart-of-gold feel to her, and the sheer amount of time and effort she spends going to bat for Della and Suki can verge on the unbelievable. Still and all, a person has to believe that there are Francines out there in the world. Without her this book would have gone from difficult to intolerable. So I’ll allow for the occasional Francine, sure. Then there are the characters ages. I’m sure there was a lot of internal discussion at the publisher as to whether or not to age up Della. She’s ten in the fourth-grade in a book with issues that are going to get it shelved in middle school and/or YA sections in some parts of the country. Shouldn’t she be twelve? I respect Bradley for keeping Della young, even when she must have been urged to make her older. I mean, it’s not like there aren’t other 10-year-olds out there that have had to grow up early. Stands to reason.
The truth? There are going to be a lot of adults out there who hate this book. Some will simply want it removed from the children’s section and placed in the YA section. I once worked in a library where that very request was leveled at the female circumcision novel No Laughter Here by Rita Williams-Garcia. As a parent, I sympathize, but there’s a moment in this book where Della is told that there are families out there where the kids have never experienced hunger or pain or poverty and it blows her mind. This is a middle grade novel about child sexual abuse. It is not an easy book, and with that subject matter you wouldn’t want it to be. And so this book will be banned somewhere because it dares to show a horrible moment being horrible. You want to protect your children from the truly horrible things in this world? That’s completely understandable, but some kids simply don’t have that luxury. They want to know they’re not alone, while other kids want to understand what other children out there are dealing with. Yes, this is a rough book but it’s also funny and loving and brave. It has the capability to build compassion in the hearts of the kids that don’t want to read books about middle class kids in happy little families all the time. You are free to dislike this book, but don’t take it away from the children who need it. After all, you may never even know who they are.
For ages 10 and up.
August 10, 2022
Uwielbiam tę autorkę. Płakałam w kawiarni czytając tę książkę.
Nie jest bez wad i nie każdemu się spodoba.
PS polskie wydanie ma oznaczenie, że książka jest od 11 roku życia- osobiście się z tym nie zgadzam
Nie jest bez wad i nie każdemu się spodoba.
PS polskie wydanie ma oznaczenie, że książka jest od 11 roku życia- osobiście się z tym nie zgadzam
April 5, 2021
It took me a really long time to sit down and write this review. And quite honestly I'm not sure what to say; however, I do know that this is one of the best middle grade books that I've read in a very long time. It's not a easy read and it handles tough topics very well. CW: parent in jail, drug use not on page, but discussed, sexual abuse of minor, attempted sexual assault of minor, attempted suicide on page.
Fighting Words isn't the first book that I've read by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley and it definitely won't be my last. The cover of the book alone illustrates that it is probably going to be a difficult read. The book itself focuses on Della and Suki as they are moved into a foster home after experiencing abuse at the hands of their mother's boyfriend while their mother serves time in prison. Although told in Della's voice who is ten, readers get the opportunity to see how events also affect Suki who is Della's older, teenage sister. As readers make their way through the book, they learn how Della and Suki not only take care of and protect each other, but they also have to function in ways that force them to be "older" than what they are. This is especially true for Suki who feels the need to provide for her sister even when they're in foster care. She focuses so much on Della that she doesn't take time to heal herself which has severe consequences. And still, the two of them have such a beautiful bond. They have their moments where they don't get along, but they've had to rely on each other for so long that readers will see how much actions of one impact the other. And it is this bond that helps them carry out very necessary actions at the end of the book. Della is a unique character in that she understands the importance of boundaries and standing up for herself in ways that her peers are not necessarily aware of yet. She has trouble following the rules in school at times, but overall she tries her hardest to make friends and to help them learn about the importance of consent, boundaries and standing up for yourself.
Another gem of this story definitely came in the form of Francine their foster mom. While some people may think that she's not realistic, I think that she was a perfect example of good individuals that exist in this world who advocate for children. I loved that Bradley made her a little prickly and stubborn because it flowed well with the personalities of the girls. They needed her and she needed them. She fought tool and nail against the State to make sure they were able to get evaluated and counseling because she knew and understood the nature of the trauma they faced. This entire book just served as an example of great character development and relationships.
This book isn't an easy read. There are sections that are going to make readers uncomfortable and there are going to be times when it seems as though it is above it's targeted audience; however, it's important that these discussions happen for a younger audience especially as they pertain to consent. Even as an adult I was saddened by some of the content, but I as a survivor myself, I wish that I had a story like this growing up that I could relate to. I commend, respect, and admire Bradley for not only talking about her own experience in the author's note, but also having the courage to create and share this story with the world when so many middle grade readers are going to need it. If you haven't heard of this book definitely check it out.
Fighting Words isn't the first book that I've read by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley and it definitely won't be my last. The cover of the book alone illustrates that it is probably going to be a difficult read. The book itself focuses on Della and Suki as they are moved into a foster home after experiencing abuse at the hands of their mother's boyfriend while their mother serves time in prison. Although told in Della's voice who is ten, readers get the opportunity to see how events also affect Suki who is Della's older, teenage sister. As readers make their way through the book, they learn how Della and Suki not only take care of and protect each other, but they also have to function in ways that force them to be "older" than what they are. This is especially true for Suki who feels the need to provide for her sister even when they're in foster care. She focuses so much on Della that she doesn't take time to heal herself which has severe consequences. And still, the two of them have such a beautiful bond. They have their moments where they don't get along, but they've had to rely on each other for so long that readers will see how much actions of one impact the other. And it is this bond that helps them carry out very necessary actions at the end of the book. Della is a unique character in that she understands the importance of boundaries and standing up for herself in ways that her peers are not necessarily aware of yet. She has trouble following the rules in school at times, but overall she tries her hardest to make friends and to help them learn about the importance of consent, boundaries and standing up for yourself.
Another gem of this story definitely came in the form of Francine their foster mom. While some people may think that she's not realistic, I think that she was a perfect example of good individuals that exist in this world who advocate for children. I loved that Bradley made her a little prickly and stubborn because it flowed well with the personalities of the girls. They needed her and she needed them. She fought tool and nail against the State to make sure they were able to get evaluated and counseling because she knew and understood the nature of the trauma they faced. This entire book just served as an example of great character development and relationships.
This book isn't an easy read. There are sections that are going to make readers uncomfortable and there are going to be times when it seems as though it is above it's targeted audience; however, it's important that these discussions happen for a younger audience especially as they pertain to consent. Even as an adult I was saddened by some of the content, but I as a survivor myself, I wish that I had a story like this growing up that I could relate to. I commend, respect, and admire Bradley for not only talking about her own experience in the author's note, but also having the courage to create and share this story with the world when so many middle grade readers are going to need it. If you haven't heard of this book definitely check it out.
August 25, 2023
An ampersand(&) = "an expectation for something more to occur." When Delicious (Della) Neveah Roberts decides to get a tattoo that defines her, this is what she got. Once you read Della--and Suki's-- story, you will be cheering them on with the hope they have inked on their wrists. This book is so timely as we continue to try to maintain necessary progress from #metoo. There are so many broken and hurt kids out there. How can we love them and help them to heal? This book shows us a way. It starts by listening. This is possibly the best middle grade fiction book I have read this year.
Reposting this after reading Dust by Dusti Bowling. Both books deal with child abuse in empowering ways.
Reposting this after reading Dust by Dusti Bowling. Both books deal with child abuse in empowering ways.
October 6, 2020
I loved the other three books I’ve read by this author (The War That Saved My Life and The War I Finally Won, and Halfway to the Sky) but this one didn’t immediately grab me and I wasn’t sure how much I’d like it, but it grew on me relatively quickly. Then I loved it. All four books I’ve read by this author thus far I’ve given 5 stars.
I loved this book but most of the way through I wasn’t sure if this would be a 5 star or 4 star book for me. If I was still a bit uncertain at the end, the author’s note decided it for me. It was wonderful, perfect, and yes the author did manage to “craft a novel for ten-year-olds featuring sexual assault, a suicide attempt, foster care, homelessness, meth addiction, and eighty-six uses of the word snow.” Kind of remarkable, in my opinion.
As an adult reader I knew what was coming (and it was not told graphically at all) and I think most children/teens who read this will be prepared to know what’s coming but for some it might come as a surprise.
I loved the references to wolves, so meaningfully and brilliantly done.
As far as the tattoos, my vote would have been for bracelets, necklaces, tee shirts, etc. but I was okay with enough with them.
I loved Francine as much as I did Della and Suki. Lots of great characters!
I would highly recommend this to many children, especially some of the kids I worked with years ago, but to most kids. I think it’s good for kids to be aware. At the least, the notion of consent is important for even the youngest children to know. This is a special book and I think it should be available in every school library and in every therapeutic setting. It’s an important story and it’s entertaining too. I could see it being triggering. It was painful AND inspirational for me to read, but the uncomfortable parts and feelings that came up for me were 100% worth it and I think they would be for most readers.
I loved this book but most of the way through I wasn’t sure if this would be a 5 star or 4 star book for me. If I was still a bit uncertain at the end, the author’s note decided it for me. It was wonderful, perfect, and yes the author did manage to “craft a novel for ten-year-olds featuring sexual assault, a suicide attempt, foster care, homelessness, meth addiction, and eighty-six uses of the word snow.” Kind of remarkable, in my opinion.
As an adult reader I knew what was coming (and it was not told graphically at all) and I think most children/teens who read this will be prepared to know what’s coming but for some it might come as a surprise.
I loved the references to wolves, so meaningfully and brilliantly done.
As far as the tattoos, my vote would have been for bracelets, necklaces, tee shirts, etc. but I was okay with enough with them.
I loved Francine as much as I did Della and Suki. Lots of great characters!
I would highly recommend this to many children, especially some of the kids I worked with years ago, but to most kids. I think it’s good for kids to be aware. At the least, the notion of consent is important for even the youngest children to know. This is a special book and I think it should be available in every school library and in every therapeutic setting. It’s an important story and it’s entertaining too. I could see it being triggering. It was painful AND inspirational for me to read, but the uncomfortable parts and feelings that came up for me were 100% worth it and I think they would be for most readers.
October 21, 2021
Audiobook…. read by the author
….6 hours and 31 minutes
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is **brilliantly talented** [Newbery Honor and Schneider award winning author]…..
….geared for middle school…. but adults love her books too!
Indirectly… I must thank my friend Lisa (Lisa Vegan on Goodreads).
She introduced me to:
“The War That Saved Me” and its follow up
“The War I Finally Won” …
So…. I reached for
“Fighting Words”.
At the center of this tale are two sisters Della (10 )and Suki (16)….foster care children. There mother is incarcerated. No idea who the father is. Very sensitive topics are covered (abuse, addiction, sexual abuse, and suicide attempt)
As with Bradley’s last two books— I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!
Believe …..
ALL THE HYPE for ‘every’ Kimberly Brubaker Bradley book she writes!!!!
Adults will be blown away!!!
Kids will experience great depth - compassion- heartbreak- (emotional feelings are nailed to the wall—packaged in love, humor, and warmth)
Some of the most heartfelt -powerful middle school books ever written and read!!
A+
5 strong stars!
Go in blind!!!
CANNOT RECOMMEND Bradley’s books enough!!!!
Audiobook listeners…
These are all wonderful treat-listening books!!!!
….6 hours and 31 minutes
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is **brilliantly talented** [Newbery Honor and Schneider award winning author]…..
….geared for middle school…. but adults love her books too!
Indirectly… I must thank my friend Lisa (Lisa Vegan on Goodreads).
She introduced me to:
“The War That Saved Me” and its follow up
“The War I Finally Won” …
So…. I reached for
“Fighting Words”.
At the center of this tale are two sisters Della (10 )and Suki (16)….foster care children. There mother is incarcerated. No idea who the father is. Very sensitive topics are covered (abuse, addiction, sexual abuse, and suicide attempt)
As with Bradley’s last two books— I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!
Believe …..
ALL THE HYPE for ‘every’ Kimberly Brubaker Bradley book she writes!!!!
Adults will be blown away!!!
Kids will experience great depth - compassion- heartbreak- (emotional feelings are nailed to the wall—packaged in love, humor, and warmth)
Some of the most heartfelt -powerful middle school books ever written and read!!
A+
5 strong stars!
Go in blind!!!
CANNOT RECOMMEND Bradley’s books enough!!!!
Audiobook listeners…
These are all wonderful treat-listening books!!!!
September 10, 2023
*3.5. Sem sombra de dúvidas um dos livros já escritos.
May 26, 2021
Intense subject matter, but a really beautiful and wonderful story.
October 21, 2020
This was a gripping read, I instantly loved Della, I couldn't stop reading this one and ended up reading it in two sittings, I had to keep going to find out what happens to these characters.
Della and Suki have the same mum but different dads, now their mum is in prison they have to start a new life but the past is still very much with them.
The characters in this story are wonderful, I loved Della and would adopt her tomorrow, she is so funny, endearing and full of life. Della is a fighter and despite her start in life she has such a positive and happy outlook, having her big sister Suki who has cared for her since she was small shows in her outlook. Sadly Suki didn't have a big sister and she finds life hard, very hard.
As well as the great characters of Suki and Della, I loved their foster carer you suspect
The author's end note was very poignant, I'm so glad that was included. I was shocked and surprised by it, not something I expected. The statistics for abuse was so shocking. I'm so glad that this book exists if it gives someone the courage to speak out and realise they are not alone.
Della and Suki have the same mum but different dads, now their mum is in prison they have to start a new life but the past is still very much with them.
The characters in this story are wonderful, I loved Della and would adopt her tomorrow, she is so funny, endearing and full of life. Della is a fighter and despite her start in life she has such a positive and happy outlook, having her big sister Suki who has cared for her since she was small shows in her outlook. Sadly Suki didn't have a big sister and she finds life hard, very hard.
As well as the great characters of Suki and Della, I loved their foster carer you suspect
The author's end note was very poignant, I'm so glad that was included. I was shocked and surprised by it, not something I expected. The statistics for abuse was so shocking. I'm so glad that this book exists if it gives someone the courage to speak out and realise they are not alone.
October 22, 2020
I adored Bradley's most recent historical novels, The War That Saved My Life and The War I Finally Won, and I've long been looking forward to reading more of her work.
This new middle grade novel just came out in August, and while the contemporary story is a departure from her previous historical novels, past readers will spot common themes and familiar character types. 10-year-old Della promises us at the beginning of the book that she's going to tell us a whole story, and that some parts are hard. They sure are. This story powerfully and sensitively addresses child sexual abuse; triggers abound, of course, but Bradley deftly handles her tough subject matter, and explains in a heartfelt author's note why it was so important for her to write it.
Here's what she says in that author's note: "Right from the first thirty-nine-page unpunctuated stream-of-consciousness, exceedingly rough draft, Della’s story mattered more to me than anything else I’ve ever written. You not only allowed but enthusiastically encouraged me to craft a novel for ten-year-olds featuring sexual assault, a suicide attempt, foster care, homelessness, meth addiction, and eighty-six uses of the word snow...."
A poignant and necessary novel.
This new middle grade novel just came out in August, and while the contemporary story is a departure from her previous historical novels, past readers will spot common themes and familiar character types. 10-year-old Della promises us at the beginning of the book that she's going to tell us a whole story, and that some parts are hard. They sure are. This story powerfully and sensitively addresses child sexual abuse; triggers abound, of course, but Bradley deftly handles her tough subject matter, and explains in a heartfelt author's note why it was so important for her to write it.
Here's what she says in that author's note: "Right from the first thirty-nine-page unpunctuated stream-of-consciousness, exceedingly rough draft, Della’s story mattered more to me than anything else I’ve ever written. You not only allowed but enthusiastically encouraged me to craft a novel for ten-year-olds featuring sexual assault, a suicide attempt, foster care, homelessness, meth addiction, and eighty-six uses of the word snow...."
A poignant and necessary novel.
July 9, 2023
4 stars
There are some middle grade books that hit so dang hard, and this is one of them. This has some light moments, but also some really heavy subject matter. I thought it was so well done. It's about two sisters- Della and Suki. Suki is 16, Della is 10, and Suki has always taken care of Della. Now, they're in a foster home and things have changed. It's a journey of their healing and figuring out these changes. Major tw for childhood sexual abuse. Also, Bahni Turpin does an incredible job narrating and I highly recommend the audiobook.
There are some middle grade books that hit so dang hard, and this is one of them. This has some light moments, but also some really heavy subject matter. I thought it was so well done. It's about two sisters- Della and Suki. Suki is 16, Della is 10, and Suki has always taken care of Della. Now, they're in a foster home and things have changed. It's a journey of their healing and figuring out these changes. Major tw for childhood sexual abuse. Also, Bahni Turpin does an incredible job narrating and I highly recommend the audiobook.
Audio book source: Libby
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Bahni Turpin
Narration Rating: 5 stars
Genre: Middle Grade
Length: 6h 31m
November 19, 2020
Incredible. And also incredibly difficult. This book tackles sensitive, horrific subject matter and does it with grace and wisdom and grit. But it is NOT a story for everyone. It’s a middle grade book, but it’s probably not suitable for every middle grader. And definitely not a young middle grader. But at the same time, this story will bring hope and light to a lot of kids. They’ll feel seen. They’ll feel known. Because, as this book says, 2/3 of all kids have to deal with some form of significant trauma. It’s tough. Really tough. But what a story. I’m so glad I read it.
August 15, 2022
Kolejna książka autorki, która na zawsze zamieszka w moim czytelniczym sercu. Bolesna, ale potrzebna. Fenomenalnie opowiedziana!
September 12, 2020
This book was waiting to be written, and Kim Brubaker Bradley was the right person to write it.
If it is possible to write a direct, child-appropriate book about sexual abuse, then this is it.
This book is a compelling, empowering read. If you are holding off because you expect to feel depressed and dirty after reading it, then be assured that you will come out of this book stronger, wiser, and energized.
General comments
From a quality perspective, this book is tighter and has more internal logic than The War That Saved My Life. I loved TWTSML, and many of my students loved it as well. This one is simply better in terms of pacing and having a logical ending. The character work, attention to detail, and handling of trauma in both books are excellent, but in this book possibly even better. I would like to specially point out the Trevor plotline, which was a masterclass in how the B plot of a book can add depth and context to the A plot. It seems effortless when Bradley does it, but I've seen it bungled in many other books.
Recommended Age Range
The age-appropriateness debate will blaze fiercely around this book. At my former school, this would be banned in grades 6-8. Goodbye Stranger was banned for less. In my opinion, it is definitely appropriate for that age group. I have an 8yo daughter who is starting 3rd grade, and I think this book is not appropriate for her. So I would say no for 3rd, yes for 6th and not sure about 4th and 5th. In the author's note, Bradley states simply that the book is for ten year olds. I am currently teaching 5th grade, so I will have a stronger opinion in a few months.
Newbery Thoughts
I want this book to win so badly. It is distinguished in many ways. First, the writing quality of the book is greater than the best book I've read up to this point- The List of Things That Will Not Change. Second, the content is handled in a way that makes it accessible for 5th/6th (maybe even 4th) grades, and that is a distinguished feat.
Also, this content deserves the signal boost it will receive by winning a major award.
Some will argue the age range. We all know that the Newbery age range is "up to 14." However, many, myself included, feel that it is best used to fill the gap between the Caldecott/Giesel and Printz awards. Given that this book is appropriate for at least age 12 up, if not 10 up, I feel it fits perfectly into the Newbery range. For contrast, I did not feel this way about Long Way Down, which I saw as being too adolescent for the Newbery.
If it is possible to write a direct, child-appropriate book about sexual abuse, then this is it.
This book is a compelling, empowering read. If you are holding off because you expect to feel depressed and dirty after reading it, then be assured that you will come out of this book stronger, wiser, and energized.
General comments
From a quality perspective, this book is tighter and has more internal logic than The War That Saved My Life. I loved TWTSML, and many of my students loved it as well. This one is simply better in terms of pacing and having a logical ending. The character work, attention to detail, and handling of trauma in both books are excellent, but in this book possibly even better. I would like to specially point out the Trevor plotline, which was a masterclass in how the B plot of a book can add depth and context to the A plot. It seems effortless when Bradley does it, but I've seen it bungled in many other books.
Recommended Age Range
The age-appropriateness debate will blaze fiercely around this book. At my former school, this would be banned in grades 6-8. Goodbye Stranger was banned for less. In my opinion, it is definitely appropriate for that age group. I have an 8yo daughter who is starting 3rd grade, and I think this book is not appropriate for her. So I would say no for 3rd, yes for 6th and not sure about 4th and 5th. In the author's note, Bradley states simply that the book is for ten year olds. I am currently teaching 5th grade, so I will have a stronger opinion in a few months.
Newbery Thoughts
I want this book to win so badly. It is distinguished in many ways. First, the writing quality of the book is greater than the best book I've read up to this point- The List of Things That Will Not Change. Second, the content is handled in a way that makes it accessible for 5th/6th (maybe even 4th) grades, and that is a distinguished feat.
Also, this content deserves the signal boost it will receive by winning a major award.
Some will argue the age range. We all know that the Newbery age range is "up to 14." However, many, myself included, feel that it is best used to fill the gap between the Caldecott/Giesel and Printz awards. Given that this book is appropriate for at least age 12 up, if not 10 up, I feel it fits perfectly into the Newbery range. For contrast, I did not feel this way about Long Way Down, which I saw as being too adolescent for the Newbery.
August 25, 2020
Oomph! This book bludgeons your heart. It serves up hard truths yet offers a pile of hope to wash them down.
May 8, 2023
Įsimylėjau šią autorė nuo pirmų jos knygų „Karas, išgelbėjęs mano gyvenimą“ ir „Karas, kurį aš galiausiai laimėjau“ sakinių. Kiek jautrumo, kiek empatijos, koks didis talentas lengvai, suprantamai, bet tiesiai širdin taikančiai rašyti vaikams, apie pačius siaubingiausius istorijos tarpsnius. Visą paletę emocijų man dovanojo tos knygos. Bibliotekoje pamačius šią Kimberly knygą, net nepaskai��ius apie ką ji – pasiėmiau. Ir kaip gerai padariau!
Tematika ir laikotarpiu „Kovos žodžiai“ kardinaliai skiriasi nuo anų knygų. Čia – šiandiena, o problema ne globalinė, bet ne ką mažiau sudėtinga ir skaudi. Seksualinė prievarta šeimoje. Knygos veikėjos – dvi sesutės, kurių mama niekada nebuvo gera, tačiau ir tos nebėra, o patėvis – laukia teismo kalėjime. Mergaitės teturi viena kitą ir viana kitos laikosi tvirtai. Beprotiškai artimos seserys atsiduria pas globėją ir bando čia kurtis naują gyvenimą, iki kol vyresnėlė Sukė sulauks pilnametystės ir galės savarankiškai rūpintis dešimtmete Daine. Tačiau per galvą dėl sesers besiverčianti Sukė turi paslaptį, kuri ją pamažu gramzdina į labai pavojingą dugną ir nors daug kas mėgina padėti – mergina pati savy turi rasti jėgų nenuskęsti.
Kaip subtiliai Kimberly nagrinėja tokią sudėtingą temą. Tiek daug skausmo palieka tarp eilučių, kad skaitant, labai giliai į širdį sukrenta visas sesučių skausmas, netektys ir bandymas tiesiog gyventi, nuolat kovojant. Ne vieną knygą esu skaičiusi apie paauglių skausmą, patirianr įvairaus plauko smurtą, bet ši – kažkuo buvo kitokia. Kažkuo tikresnė, skaudesnė, kažkokios kitokios tamsos ir spalvos turėjo pats pasakojimas. Perskaičiusi autorės žodį viskas stojo į vietas – tas skausmas plaukė tiesiai iš pačios rašytojos patirties. Tai prieš ją pačią padaryto nusikaltimo įkvėptas pasakojimas. Savotiškas išsikalbėjimas pasauliui, kad pačiai būtų lengviau. Tuo pačiu, tai įkvėpimas kenčiantiems netylėti ir žinoti, jog visada yra ausis, ranka, akis, širdis – pasirengusi, išgirsti, padėti, pamatyti ir atjausti. Labai graži ir tuo pačiu jautri istorija, kurią tikrai rekomenduočiau tiek paaugliams, tiek suaugusiems skaitytojams.
Tematika ir laikotarpiu „Kovos žodžiai“ kardinaliai skiriasi nuo anų knygų. Čia – šiandiena, o problema ne globalinė, bet ne ką mažiau sudėtinga ir skaudi. Seksualinė prievarta šeimoje. Knygos veikėjos – dvi sesutės, kurių mama niekada nebuvo gera, tačiau ir tos nebėra, o patėvis – laukia teismo kalėjime. Mergaitės teturi viena kitą ir viana kitos laikosi tvirtai. Beprotiškai artimos seserys atsiduria pas globėją ir bando čia kurtis naują gyvenimą, iki kol vyresnėlė Sukė sulauks pilnametystės ir galės savarankiškai rūpintis dešimtmete Daine. Tačiau per galvą dėl sesers besiverčianti Sukė turi paslaptį, kuri ją pamažu gramzdina į labai pavojingą dugną ir nors daug kas mėgina padėti – mergina pati savy turi rasti jėgų nenuskęsti.
Kaip subtiliai Kimberly nagrinėja tokią sudėtingą temą. Tiek daug skausmo palieka tarp eilučių, kad skaitant, labai giliai į širdį sukrenta visas sesučių skausmas, netektys ir bandymas tiesiog gyventi, nuolat kovojant. Ne vieną knygą esu skaičiusi apie paauglių skausmą, patirianr įvairaus plauko smurtą, bet ši – kažkuo buvo kitokia. Kažkuo tikresnė, skaudesnė, kažkokios kitokios tamsos ir spalvos turėjo pats pasakojimas. Perskaičiusi autorės žodį viskas stojo į vietas – tas skausmas plaukė tiesiai iš pačios rašytojos patirties. Tai prieš ją pačią padaryto nusikaltimo įkvėptas pasakojimas. Savotiškas išsikalbėjimas pasauliui, kad pačiai būtų lengviau. Tuo pačiu, tai įkvėpimas kenčiantiems netylėti ir žinoti, jog visada yra ausis, ranka, akis, širdis – pasirengusi, išgirsti, padėti, pamatyti ir atjausti. Labai graži ir tuo pačiu jautri istorija, kurią tikrai rekomenduočiau tiek paaugliams, tiek suaugusiems skaitytojams.
December 23, 2024
Nors mano vyresniajai dukrai jau devyneri metai, bet vis nori, kad jai vakarais prieš miegą kokią istoriją paskaityčiau. Kai paskutinį kartą jai rinkau kūrinį bibliotekoje, tai akys užkliuvo už "Kovos žodžių".
Uždarius į kalėjimą mamą, Sukei teko greitai suaugti, nors mergaitei buvo tik devyneri metai. Ji kiek galėdama stengėsi globoti bei ginti savo jauniausiąją sesutę Dainę.
Kuo toliau skaičiau, supratau, kad šįsyk dukrytei parinkau ne pagal amžių knygą. Kūrinys paliečia ne tik tokias temas kaip seserų vienybė bei bendrystė, bet ir seksualinį smurtą, narkotikus, kitų žmonių globą... Reikia apie tai vaikams bei paaugliams rašyti, net būtina. Juk iš knygų vaikai ir mokosi apie gyvenimą bei vertybes. Bet ši knyga pačiai nebuvo stipri, buvo vis pasikartojančios vietos, tik šiek buvo paėmęs jauduliukas dėl sesučių ir jų nelengvo gyvenimo.
P. S. Ši autorė yra parašiusi "Karas, išgelbėjęs mano gyvenimą". Stipri istorija, lengvai skaitoma, tad tinkama tiek vaikams, bet ir jų tėvai neliks abejingi. Rekomenduoju 100%❤️
Uždarius į kalėjimą mamą, Sukei teko greitai suaugti, nors mergaitei buvo tik devyneri metai. Ji kiek galėdama stengėsi globoti bei ginti savo jauniausiąją sesutę Dainę.
Kuo toliau skaičiau, supratau, kad šįsyk dukrytei parinkau ne pagal amžių knygą. Kūrinys paliečia ne tik tokias temas kaip seserų vienybė bei bendrystė, bet ir seksualinį smurtą, narkotikus, kitų žmonių globą... Reikia apie tai vaikams bei paaugliams rašyti, net būtina. Juk iš knygų vaikai ir mokosi apie gyvenimą bei vertybes. Bet ši knyga pačiai nebuvo stipri, buvo vis pasikartojančios vietos, tik šiek buvo paėmęs jauduliukas dėl sesučių ir jų nelengvo gyvenimo.
P. S. Ši autorė yra parašiusi "Karas, išgelbėjęs mano gyvenimą". Stipri istorija, lengvai skaitoma, tad tinkama tiek vaikams, bet ir jų tėvai neliks abejingi. Rekomenduoju 100%❤️
May 19, 2021
This is middle grade book is difficult but important and I think the author deals with the subject matter appropriately (even though it may not be for every middle grader). It deals with topics like childhood sexual abuse, harassment, consent, inappropriate touching etc.
The book is narrated by 10 year old Della, who is fierce and brave. She has got a 'big mouth'; she likes strong and powerful words. She takes no crap from anybody and speaks up for herself and her friends.
I got a big mouth. That’s a good thing. It’s excellent.
Suki, Della's older sister, is 16 who always took care of Della. But there was no one to take care of Suki. She had to care care of a younger sister and act as an adult when she was merely 6 or 7 years old. She's traumatized by childhood sexual abuse for years and is afraid to report it. She fears she will have to sit before her criminal in court while lawyer will try to prove she's lying. For her, it's not easy to speak up.
What the author wants to convey is that children who have gone through such traumatic experience can heal. They are never alone. It happens to a lot of children and it's not their fault. If people start speaking about harassment more, maybe such things would happen less for the fear of accountability and exposure of the criminal.
As a child, Della knows what happened to her is bad but she doesn't know sexual abusers can go to prison for that. She is astonished to learn that it's a 'criminal offence' punishable by law. She can feel that inappropriate touching is awful and wrong but she doesn't know inappropriate touching is a 'thing', that there's punishment for it.
It's the duty of adults to educate children properly; to take them into confidence and ask them to report when something bad or inappropriate happens instead of leaving them off to figure out and deal with things on their own for which they aren't ready yet.
What Della learns eventually is that neither punching nor being silent and ignoring the offender is a permanent solution. Silence encourages the offender to keep doing bad as he knows no one's going to speak up or held him accountable.
Through the subplot, Bradley shows how young boys need to be taught that things like pinching fellow girl classmates inappropriately at the back is not fun. They can't get away with such teasing. They aren't going to be absolved because 'boys will be boys'. It's wrong and punishable.
There's nothing boyish in wrong and improper conduct.
The book is narrated by 10 year old Della, who is fierce and brave. She has got a 'big mouth'; she likes strong and powerful words. She takes no crap from anybody and speaks up for herself and her friends.
I got a big mouth. That’s a good thing. It’s excellent.
Suki, Della's older sister, is 16 who always took care of Della. But there was no one to take care of Suki. She had to care care of a younger sister and act as an adult when she was merely 6 or 7 years old. She's traumatized by childhood sexual abuse for years and is afraid to report it. She fears she will have to sit before her criminal in court while lawyer will try to prove she's lying. For her, it's not easy to speak up.
What the author wants to convey is that children who have gone through such traumatic experience can heal. They are never alone. It happens to a lot of children and it's not their fault. If people start speaking about harassment more, maybe such things would happen less for the fear of accountability and exposure of the criminal.
As a child, Della knows what happened to her is bad but she doesn't know sexual abusers can go to prison for that. She is astonished to learn that it's a 'criminal offence' punishable by law. She can feel that inappropriate touching is awful and wrong but she doesn't know inappropriate touching is a 'thing', that there's punishment for it.
It's the duty of adults to educate children properly; to take them into confidence and ask them to report when something bad or inappropriate happens instead of leaving them off to figure out and deal with things on their own for which they aren't ready yet.
What Della learns eventually is that neither punching nor being silent and ignoring the offender is a permanent solution. Silence encourages the offender to keep doing bad as he knows no one's going to speak up or held him accountable.
Through the subplot, Bradley shows how young boys need to be taught that things like pinching fellow girl classmates inappropriately at the back is not fun. They can't get away with such teasing. They aren't going to be absolved because 'boys will be boys'. It's wrong and punishable.
There's nothing boyish in wrong and improper conduct.
September 15, 2020
I read and loved The War That Saved My Life, so I was excited to receive an ARC of Brubaker Bradley's upcoming novel.
Della and Suki are in the foster system. They land with Francine who seems to be someone they can rely on, but they just don't know. They have only ever relied on one another. Their mother is incarcerated (a meth addict) and the only other guardian they have known, Clifton, is more of a monster than anything.
There are definitely trigger warnings in this one, but I think the content is handled in a respectful manner and one that can start a discussion with kids over the age of nine about sexual assault. I know it's scary to think of such things, but the stats provided by the author in the back suggest this is something we need to be aware of as parents and educators.
The book doesn't beat the lesson over your head. Rather, Brubaker Bradley gives you two sisters that are trying to create the words for what is happening to them in the aftermath of such trauma. I was rooting for them every step of the way.
Thank you to Penguin Random House for the ARC. Finalist for the Kirkus Prize.
Della and Suki are in the foster system. They land with Francine who seems to be someone they can rely on, but they just don't know. They have only ever relied on one another. Their mother is incarcerated (a meth addict) and the only other guardian they have known, Clifton, is more of a monster than anything.
There are definitely trigger warnings in this one, but I think the content is handled in a respectful manner and one that can start a discussion with kids over the age of nine about sexual assault. I know it's scary to think of such things, but the stats provided by the author in the back suggest this is something we need to be aware of as parents and educators.
The book doesn't beat the lesson over your head. Rather, Brubaker Bradley gives you two sisters that are trying to create the words for what is happening to them in the aftermath of such trauma. I was rooting for them every step of the way.
Thank you to Penguin Random House for the ARC. Finalist for the Kirkus Prize.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2021
Bradley's wonderful The War That Saved My Life and The War I Finally Won deal with hard subjects: abuse, mental illness, grief, war. This one is no different. If anything, it's more piercing, because it's contemporary, which makes it feel more real, and it's about sexual abuse.
This is handled well. Bradley, herself a survivor, knows how to talk about these things in a way that doesn't pull any punches, but is readable. I was worried that this book would be too hard to read, but no, it was absolutely gripping and raw and beautiful. I loved Della and Suki, and I REALLY loved Francine.
In conclusion: This is a damn fine book.
This is handled well. Bradley, herself a survivor, knows how to talk about these things in a way that doesn't pull any punches, but is readable. I was worried that this book would be too hard to read, but no, it was absolutely gripping and raw and beautiful. I loved Della and Suki, and I REALLY loved Francine.
In conclusion: This is a damn fine book.
December 29, 2021
2021 Best Books of the Year [#08 of 11]
August 30, 2020
I could always count on Suki. Suki fixed everything.Della has always been able to rely on Suki, her older sister. Suki has taken care of and protected Della her whole life. Now the sisters are in foster care and their mother’s boyfriend, Clifton, is in prison. Della keeps getting in trouble at school and Suki wakes up screaming each night.
I’ve learned that some things are almost impossible to talk about because they’re things no one wants to know.I think we can sometimes underestimate the importance of young readers being able to see themselves in books. Although it’s wonderful to be able to escape into a world that only exists in your imagination, watching a character live through an experience that you can relate to is its own special type of magic.
Della and Suki’s story has the potential to reach readers who have experienced, or are still experiencing, sexual assault. I want Della’s words to reach through the page to let those readers know that they’re not alone and that there are people who will help them.
I loved Della. She’s a little spitfire but she’s also so courageous and resilient. Despite everything she’s experienced she is still loving and fiercely loyal. Her bond with Suki was beautiful, although the beauty was tinged with some sadness because Suki should never have been put in the position of caring for and protecting her younger sister.
I really hope this book finds its way to the readers it needs to. The story of these sisters is heartbreaking but ultimately hopeful. It clearly shows how important people’s responses to disclosures of sexual assault are to those who have the courage to speak up. Some of the impacts of this type of trauma are explored, as are some of the ways they can be managed.
Sometimes you’ve got a story you need to find the courage to tell.While I was relieved that the abuser in this story was incarcerated I know that this will not be part of the story for so many survivors. The majority of perpetrators of sexual assault will never spend a day in prison. The statistics are absolutely horrifying.
I don’t say this to discourage people from reporting what was done to them. It’s just that the majority of stories I’ve read that address sexual assault result in the conviction of the perpetrator. This is not a complaint about this book, merely a general observation.
We want the baddies to have consequences for their actions. I understand that. But when fiction only represents the outcome for the minority of victims of this crime, do we risk sending the message that being able to heal from this sexual assault is reliant upon the incarceration of the offender?
There are discussion notes at the end of the book, where the recommended reading age is said to be 14+. When I was a kid I only read books about kids who were my age or older so at 14 I wouldn’t have picked up a book where the main character was 12, but that’s probably just one of my quirks.
I can pretty much guarantee the word ‘snow’ will take on a whole new meaning once you’ve read this book.
Content warnings include addiction, bullying, foster care, sexual assault, suicide attempt (includes the method used), and verbal and emotional abuse.
Thank you to NetGalley and Text Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
Blog - https://schizanthusnerd.com
April 25, 2020
Such an important book. I read this one in 2 days and it will stay with me for a very long time. A must-read.
April 5, 2021
After reading The War that Saved My Life and its sequel, I instantly knew I wanted to read this as soon as I came across it. Very tough subject matter with lots of Trigger Warnings, but a wonderful book. Love that it was narrated by one of my favorites - Bahni Turpin!
August 25, 2022
To absolutnie jedna z ważniejszych książek, które trzeba poznać.
February 25, 2020
Richie’s Pick: FIGHTING WORDS by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, Dial Books for Young Readers, August 2020, 256p., ISBN: 978-1-9848-1568-2
“‘Til your world burns and crashes
‘Til you’re at the end, the end of your rope
‘Til you’re standing in my shoes, I don’t wanna hear nothing from you
From you, from you, ‘cause you don’t know
‘Til it happens to you, you don’t know how I feel”
-- Lady Gaga (2015)
“If you’ve been hurt, tell someone. Tell your parents if you can, or your teacher, or your doctor, or any other adult you trust. If that person doesn’t help you, tell someone else. Keep talking until you get the help you need.”
-- from the Author’s Note
FIGHTING WORDS is groundbreaking contemporary fiction for upper elementary and middle school readers. It’s an essential introduction to the #MeToo movement.
Ten year-old Della and her big sister Suki have ended up in foster care. First, their mother accidentally ignited a motel room while cooking up meth. Then their mother was arrested, and the two girls were picked up at the police station by their mother’s boyfriend. With their mother permanently committed to a mental institution, the boyfriend sexually assaulted Della. Her older sister stumbled upon them and used a cell phone to take and email a photo that shows what he was doing to Della. The boyfriend was arrested and is awaiting trial.
The question is, what had the boyfriend done to the older sister, Suki?
“I mean, I’d rather Suki was fine. But she wasn’t.
“You’re like a pressure cooker,’ Francine said, when the caseworker left, ‘and the water’s getting hot.’
Suki said, ‘What the snow’s a pressure cooker?’
‘A thing my mamaw used to have,’ Francine said. ‘For canning vegetables from her garden. It’s a pot you put water in and seal tight shut before you heat it up. The water boils into steam and makes pressure.
Thing is,’ Francine said, ‘pressure cookers have this little valve on top. Rattles around, keeps the pressure from building up too high inside the pot. If the valve isn’t working right, pressure cookers can be dangerous. They can turn into bombs. They explode.’”
Della and Suki are in desperate need of their own pressure relief valves.
As if Della hasn’t endured enough already, there is more trouble: Living in foster care at Francine’s house; attending a new school; awaiting the boyfriend’s trial; and with Suki in tatters; Della is sexually harassed by a boy in her class who goes around pinching the female classmates in the back--where their bra straps would be--and then calling them babies for not yet wearing bras.
Della is an alternately fierce and fragile character dealing with pain, insecurity, and loss. She’ll come to learn that speaking up clearly and insistently, until she’s really heard, is more effective than are explicatives, fists, or harming oneself.
Francine is an interesting and pivotal character in Della’s life. Della has never met her father. She’s been criminally neglected by her mother. After having been sexually assaulted by the boyfriend, Della is wary of Francine, a stranger with whom she is suddenly living and being cared for.
Francine is close-mouthed about her previous experiences as a foster parent, but she makes it clear that she’s seen and heard it all. She turns out to be the rock that Della needs to survive and move forward.
In her Note, the author cites a horrifying statistic attributed to the federal DOJ and CDC: One in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the time they reach the age of eighteen. I hope and pray that young readers read this fact. It means that in every classroom across America there are likely several kids who are victims. It means it can happen to any kid. This is a national crisis that dwarfs so many other issues we worry about and protest against.
Boys snapping girls’ bra straps, or pinching their backs as is the case here, could serve as a gateway behavior to even more insidious sexual abuse and assault. It’s essential that young people don’t tolerate any such violations of their bodies but, instead, support one another and (thanks, Laurie Halse Anderson) SPEAK.
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
https://www.facebook.com/richiespicks/
richiepartington@gmail.com
“‘Til your world burns and crashes
‘Til you’re at the end, the end of your rope
‘Til you’re standing in my shoes, I don’t wanna hear nothing from you
From you, from you, ‘cause you don’t know
‘Til it happens to you, you don’t know how I feel”
-- Lady Gaga (2015)
“If you’ve been hurt, tell someone. Tell your parents if you can, or your teacher, or your doctor, or any other adult you trust. If that person doesn’t help you, tell someone else. Keep talking until you get the help you need.”
-- from the Author’s Note
FIGHTING WORDS is groundbreaking contemporary fiction for upper elementary and middle school readers. It’s an essential introduction to the #MeToo movement.
Ten year-old Della and her big sister Suki have ended up in foster care. First, their mother accidentally ignited a motel room while cooking up meth. Then their mother was arrested, and the two girls were picked up at the police station by their mother’s boyfriend. With their mother permanently committed to a mental institution, the boyfriend sexually assaulted Della. Her older sister stumbled upon them and used a cell phone to take and email a photo that shows what he was doing to Della. The boyfriend was arrested and is awaiting trial.
The question is, what had the boyfriend done to the older sister, Suki?
“I mean, I’d rather Suki was fine. But she wasn’t.
“You’re like a pressure cooker,’ Francine said, when the caseworker left, ‘and the water’s getting hot.’
Suki said, ‘What the snow’s a pressure cooker?’
‘A thing my mamaw used to have,’ Francine said. ‘For canning vegetables from her garden. It’s a pot you put water in and seal tight shut before you heat it up. The water boils into steam and makes pressure.
Thing is,’ Francine said, ‘pressure cookers have this little valve on top. Rattles around, keeps the pressure from building up too high inside the pot. If the valve isn’t working right, pressure cookers can be dangerous. They can turn into bombs. They explode.’”
Della and Suki are in desperate need of their own pressure relief valves.
As if Della hasn’t endured enough already, there is more trouble: Living in foster care at Francine’s house; attending a new school; awaiting the boyfriend’s trial; and with Suki in tatters; Della is sexually harassed by a boy in her class who goes around pinching the female classmates in the back--where their bra straps would be--and then calling them babies for not yet wearing bras.
Della is an alternately fierce and fragile character dealing with pain, insecurity, and loss. She’ll come to learn that speaking up clearly and insistently, until she’s really heard, is more effective than are explicatives, fists, or harming oneself.
Francine is an interesting and pivotal character in Della’s life. Della has never met her father. She’s been criminally neglected by her mother. After having been sexually assaulted by the boyfriend, Della is wary of Francine, a stranger with whom she is suddenly living and being cared for.
Francine is close-mouthed about her previous experiences as a foster parent, but she makes it clear that she’s seen and heard it all. She turns out to be the rock that Della needs to survive and move forward.
In her Note, the author cites a horrifying statistic attributed to the federal DOJ and CDC: One in four girls and one in six boys will be sexually abused by the time they reach the age of eighteen. I hope and pray that young readers read this fact. It means that in every classroom across America there are likely several kids who are victims. It means it can happen to any kid. This is a national crisis that dwarfs so many other issues we worry about and protest against.
Boys snapping girls’ bra straps, or pinching their backs as is the case here, could serve as a gateway behavior to even more insidious sexual abuse and assault. It’s essential that young people don’t tolerate any such violations of their bodies but, instead, support one another and (thanks, Laurie Halse Anderson) SPEAK.
Richie Partington, MLIS
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October 20, 2020
I wish someone had given me this book when I was ten years old. Who knows the difference it could have made, knowing I wasn't alone.
November 7, 2020
I liked this book better looking back on it than when I was reading it. I think the author's use of the word "snow" instead of cursing irritated me (38 times?)
In any case, KBB has written a book about sexual abuse that can be read by tweens/teens. How cool is that? Della has always been protected by her older sister, Suki, with her mother in prison for cooking meth. Upon the mother's incarceration, the system fails, allowing them to stay with the mother's boyfriend, Clifford, who was a long haul truck drive, typically gone weekdays. Arriving home early on a random Thursday when Suki is at the movies with friends, a tragedy is narrowly averted. Suki and Della get moved into foster care, with a responsible woman, who truly wants to help. Della has been taught to stand up for herself, and feels the need to stand up for a new friend too, getting herself in trouble at school. Meanwhile, Suki is having nightmares for the obvious reason, refuses help, and Della is troubled that she did nothing for her sister. Well done.
In any case, KBB has written a book about sexual abuse that can be read by tweens/teens. How cool is that? Della has always been protected by her older sister, Suki, with her mother in prison for cooking meth. Upon the mother's incarceration, the system fails, allowing them to stay with the mother's boyfriend, Clifford, who was a long haul truck drive, typically gone weekdays. Arriving home early on a random Thursday when Suki is at the movies with friends, a tragedy is narrowly averted. Suki and Della get moved into foster care, with a responsible woman, who truly wants to help. Della has been taught to stand up for herself, and feels the need to stand up for a new friend too, getting herself in trouble at school. Meanwhile, Suki is having nightmares for the obvious reason, refuses help, and Della is troubled that she did nothing for her sister. Well done.
May 30, 2022
Powerful
This is a very important book for young people to read. It addresses real issues that are sadly happening in our society.
Topics of broken families, suicide,abuse and inappropriate touching are handled gently and are rope for discussion.
Great book that I highly recommend.
This is a very important book for young people to read. It addresses real issues that are sadly happening in our society.
Topics of broken families, suicide,abuse and inappropriate touching are handled gently and are rope for discussion.
Great book that I highly recommend.
August 7, 2023
Stipru. Lyg ir skirta vaikams ir paaugliams, lyg ir pradžioje yra naivumo, paprastumo. O kuo toliau, tuo daugiau užuominų, kad slepiasi sunki ir baisi istorija, skausmingos patirtys. Tokios, apie kurias gėda kalbėti, kurios nutylimos, nes bijoma, kad niekas nepatikės. Ir visgi svarbu kalbėti, o šiuo atveju skaityti. Nes svarbu žinoti, kad gali būti, ir ką daryti, jei taip atsitinka.
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