I was lucky enough to be one of the judges for this year’s ILA GLBTQ section. Before we select the winner, I’d like to post some of my thoughts on the lesbian entry.
[Cover redacted due to cutting scars that might be triggering]
Scars is actually the only nominee with a lesbian protagonist. But that’s definitely not the main issue in Scars. This novel is mostly about being raped as a child and cutting to deal with the pain. It is not an easy book to read. I had to put it down at times because of the graphic details of her cutting, though that’s not a complaint. I struggled with how I felt about this book, because on the one hand it seemed very, very dramatic, especially at the end. (She is being stalked by her childhood rapist, whose identity she has blocked out, leaving every adult male in her life a possible suspect.) On the other hand, I don’t know how this story could have been told without seeming dramatic, and it’s a story worth telling. I really liked some of the secondary characters, especially her girlfriend (and her therapist, who I’m glad is described positively).
Have you read any of the finalists? What did you think of it?
allis says
I haven’t read nay of this books, but I’m more than intrigued by Will Grayson, Will Grayson. I’ve heard so much about it, I’m probably going to read it soon 🙂
Danika the Lesbrarian says
It’s definitely gotten a lot of attention in the ol’ blogosphere. You can’t really go wrong with David Levithan and John Green!
amymckie says
Great quick reviews of all of the books, so glad you enjoyed something in all of them. I can’t wait to see which one wins!
Danika the Lesbrarian says
I definitely had some favorites, but I can see why they were all nominated. I think for a lot of us it came down to what we personally liked to read, not the merit of the book, necessarily, because they all had at least some positive aspects.
bookish butch says
Good job, makes me want to read them!!
Danika the Lesbrarian says
I’m glad! I would love to see what you think about Scars, especially.
bookgazing says
Some of my favourite parts of Krakow Melt were the doctor’s sections.
You’re not in the minority about the ending btw. I’ve seen that talked about in every review I’ve read so far so lots of people agree with you.
Danika the Lesbrarian says
I have to admit, overall Krakow Melt was a little too odd for me, but I know that’s just a personal preference, and I still liked parts of it.
Really? That’s reassuring. I’ve only heard people praise the ending!
Wallace says
Thanks for being part of these awards and for all of your hard work getting these books read and discussed in such a short amount of time!
Danika the Lesbrarian says
Thank you for having me on the panel! It was a lot of fun!