Laurie Halse Anderson: Twisted

Anderson, L. H., (2007). Twisted. New York, NY: Viking Juvenile.

Twisted is Laurie Halse Anderson’s fifth young adult novel, and the first one that she has written from the point of view of a teenage boy. The themes of depression and death run throughout the book, shown to the reader through the authentic emotions and actions of the protagonist. Twisted  won the ALA Best Book for Young Adults in 2008 and is the second book of Anderson’s to become a New York Times Bestseller, after Speak.

Summary

Tyler Miller was a normal kid. Average in pretty much every way, including grades, looks, and family life. Like many average kids, he made a mistake…and had to pay for it. The punishment for his petty crime included manual labor, which was supposed to help build character, but built Tyler’s body, too. It helped Tyler become, well, HOT. Girls who never noticed him before are now seeing him in a different way, including the most popular girl at school, Bethany Milbury. Unfortunately, Bethany is the daughter of Tyler’s father’s boss, and her twin brother is also Tyler’s biggest nemesis, so things can only be complicated. But when Tyler begins showing his interest in Bethany, something terrible happens and everyone thinks that Tyler is guilty…again. Through all of this turmoil, Tyler begins to question his overbearing father and his own place in the world. Where does he belong? Is anything worth all the trouble? Will his father, and the world, ever see him for anything other than a criminal, or should he just end it?

Video Book Talk on YouTube

Online Book Talks

http://www.commonsensemedia.org/book-reviews/twisted

Common Sense Media is a non-profit organization whose goal is to help kids and families by providing reliable information and education about various topics. They do not believe in censorship, but rather in being fully informed so that better choices can be made. Common Sense Media’s book reviews don’t shy away from controversial books or topics, but provide honest and valuable information. In addition to books, they have reviews on TV shows, movies, music, and more. Their review of Twisted contains information about the educational value as well as opinions about the amount of sex, drugs, and violence involved in the book. Although information is geared toward parents, students can be confident in the reviews, as well. They cheer Twisted, saying, “It’s a terrific thing, and all too rare, to see a protagonist develop hard-won strength of character right before your eyes.” Great praise for a great read!

http://kpl.lib.mo.us/content_uploads/Twisted%20Book%20Talk.mp3

Kirkwood Public Library’s website contains a compilation of booktalks, in the form of Podcasts, ranging from children’s books to adults books. Information is not given as to the author of the booktalks on this site, but each Podcast provides great information and many “teasers” that will entice readers to check out these recommended books. The Podcast for Twisted is read by a male, and although he does pronounce the author’s name incorrectly, he provides decent background and information on the book’s themes.

http://www.teenink.com/reviews/book_reviews/article/141866/Twisted-by-Laurie-Halse-Anderson/

TeenInk.com is the website of the national magazine devoted entirely to teenage writing, art, photos and forums.  Only students who are ages 13-19 may participate, register and/or submit work, including book reviews like this one. Reviewed by a teen who has also submitted her own original writing, many students and adults will find this booktalk of Twisted interesting and thought-provoking. After reading this review, you will want to find a copy of the novel to read it all for yourself! If you don’t agree with the reviewers points, and you’re age 13-19, you can even submit your own review! (If you do, share the link here so we can read your thoughts, too!)

http://www.teenreads.com/reviews/twisted-1

TeenReads.com is part of the Book Report Network, a site dedicated to…you guessed it…BOOK REVIEWS! Teen Reads showcases the best in young adult literature, like the works of Laurie Halse Anderson. My favorite part about this booktalk is the comparison that it makes to other transformational literature, like The Little Mermaid and Pygmalion. After reading the novel and then this booktalk, I began making even more connections that I had originally. If you haven’t already read Twisted, this review will definitely peak your interest. If you HAVE read it…you might want to take a second look, like I plan on doing, all because of this wonderfully written review.

http://readingfool.blogspot.com/2007/05/twisted-by-laurie-halse-anderson.html

“I’m a Reading Fool” is a blog by someone simply known as “Miriam,” or “The Reading Fool.” She obviously loves books, as she has a plethora of reviews covering many genres and topics and has even created her own rating scale. Twisted received the highest marks from The Reading Fool: 5/5 for both Quality and Popularity. Not only does the reviewer read and provide a great booktalk of the book, but there is evidence that she also spends some time researching the author. Her “musings” on the book provide valuable insight to what other teens may think when reading the book. Comments left by others may agree or disagree with The Reading Fool’s conclusions, and some will have links to their own thoughts about the book. Overall, The Reading Fool sums up Twisted quite succintly and eloquently, and I’ll think you’ll enjoy her musings almost as much as Laurie Halse Anderson’s novels!

Your Thoughts

Have you read Twisted? Please leave a comment! Teachers: how have you used this novel in your classroom? What reactions did you receive from students? From parents? Students: what did you think about this novel? Would you recommend it to others? Why or why not?

Happy reading!