Radical Reads: 101 Ya Novels on the Edge

Bodart, long known as the reigning queen of booktalking, has identified 101 engaging, tough, and well-written books and presents them in a way that will help the librarian defend their presence in the library or classroom, the parent who wants to know what their child is reading, and the teen who is looking for a 'Rad Read.' Naturally, there is a booktalk to pique interest and give away just enough of the story. Entries also include character lists and sections on subject areas and major themes. Bodart also provides a number of booktalk and book report ideas. Her section on 'risks' will alert adults to mature themes, while her section on 'strengths' will help defend these books against their critics. The author has also included awards won and a section of book reviews, which will be useful for both adult and student.

Joni Richards Bodart is the Reference Librarian and Computer Liaison for the Woodbury Branch Library of the Denver Public Library System and Adjunct Professor in Library and Information Services at the University of Denver.