The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banksby E. Lockhart
Hyperion Books
New York
2008
ISBN: 0786838183
Plot Summary:
All her life Frankie's been the "Bunny Rabbit," and she's tired of it. After being noticed by Alpha and his pack of cool senior boys, Frankie begins riding the wave of popularity as one of the girlfriends. However, the honeymoon is short, and Frankie begins plotting how to be taken seriously--as one of the boys, instead of just a girlfriend.
Critical Evaluation:
A well-researched joyride following a very precocious girl and her quest to be recognized. Originally inspired by a teacher's use of the Foucaultian model of the Panoptican, as well as the "Cities, Art, and Protest" class, and her father's experience in the school's secret society, Frankie's stratagems, schemings, and acts are humorously connected to Lockhart's thorough studies into the topics. Frankie's quest is always funny, poignant, and engrossing.
Reader's Annotation:
Frankie's looks are finally beginning to catch up with her brains, and her schoolmates can't help but notice. But can Frankie break through the boy's club and be noticed as more than just a pretty face?
Author Info:
E. Lockhart is the author of three "Ruby Oliver Books," and four other novels. The Disreputable History... was the recipient of numerous awards including the Printz Honor Book Award and a finalist for the National Book Award.
Genre:
Coming-of-Age/Romance/YA Fiction
Reader Level/ Interest Age:
A young adult book, but it's well-researched subplot involving anarchic pranks and Situationist-style hijinks, as well as its protagonist budding feminist rebellions make it a stimulating read for absolutely anyone.
Booktalking Ideas:
*Why does Frankie hate her nickname "Bunny Rabbit"?
*Does Matthew truly like her? And, better yet, does Frankie truly like Matthew?
*What does Frankie learn from her sophomore year conspiracy?
*Do her activities ultimately disrupt the prevailing order at all?
Challenge Issues:
Intellectually advanced themes, but zero explicit or challenging topics.
Why Include?:
Another wonderful recommendation from my awesome library school colleague.
