Written by Craig Silvey
Charlie Bucktin was just an average, carefree thirteen-year-old kid. That is, until Jasper Jones comes to Charlie’s bedroom window one night asking for his help. Reluctantly Charlie follows Jasper to his hideout in the glades where he becomes Jasper’s partner in crime. Jasper claims that he found Laura Wishart already dead. Both Charlie and Jasper know that they can’t call the police because no matter what they say Jasper will be blamed. Jasper anchors the body to a piece of granite and on the count of three they toss her body into the river. I couldn’t put the book down. I had to know who was responsible for Laura’s death. The story alludes to some difficult topics: racism, which is directed at the half-aboriginal Jasper, suicide, and what would cause a young girl to take her own life, abuse, and adultery. I would not recommend this book for junior high students because of the subject matter but also because of the strong language.
Review by Cindy Moyle, Granite School District Library Media Program
Rating: ★★★★✩ (4 Stars)
Interest Level: Grades 10-12
Craig Silvey – Official Website
Jasper Jones
Written by Craig Silvey
Alfred A. Knopf
320 p.
Release Date: April 5, 2011
ISBN: 9780375866661 (hardcover)
