I wrote a more general post about literary quality. But then I realized I had specific comments to make about the two novels I read for my YA lit class: Rot and Ruin and Please Ignore Vera Dietz.
On one hand, the Rot and Ruin is a fairly conventional example of dystopian YA. It isn't an innovative novel in terms of structure or plot; it moves predictably and linearly from point A to point B. On the other hand, the narrative voice is strong, the pacing is tight, and the plot - while not extraordinary - is engaging and layered enough to keep the reader interested. The arc of the character development isn't surprising, but it is satisfying and the characters are well-developed and three-dimensional. In particular, the book's antagonist, while initially depicted as little more than a thug, is fleshed out as the story progresses. While readers are not invited to sympathize with him, they can understand his point of view - and maybe even be reminded of times when they have made similar rationalizations.
In contrast, Please Ignore Vera Dietz (a Printz Honor Book) is unconventionally structured, with a unique compilation of narrative voices. Yet, I think an argument could be made that the structure (and the multiple voices) is a gimmick that functions to "dress up" an otherwise pedestrian story about a boy from an abusive home and the girl who loved him. More importantly, I think that while Vera and her father are fully-realized, three-dimensional characters, Charlie remains an enigma (perhaps deliberately) throughout the novel, and Jenny is presented as nothing more than a one-dimensional "evil girl."
As between the two, I'm not convinced Please Ignore Vera Dietz is the worthier book. As my classmate, Will, points out in his blog, " I often find myself remembering parts of some of the best books I've read, or the best songs I've heard as I go through my day, and I think it helps me make sense of all the craziness out there." I agree wholeheartedly with this sentiment. And while I have mulled over Rot and Ruin repeatedly since I read it, I haven't thought about Please Ignore Vera Dietz outside of my classwork.
"Jonathan Hunt, who served on the 2008 Printz Award committee, stated, “You wrestle with the award criteria, with your own literary prejudices, and with the committee process…" http://bit.ly/hdEVB6
ReplyDeleteI think it would be a fascinating exercise to get 9 YA enthusiasts together, read the Printz winner and honor books, and then try to reach consensus.
Should the book that each remembers the most -- that haunts the reader win?
See, this is exactly what I'm trying to figure out. The more I consider it (and at this point I have considered it so much my brain is a little sore) the more I believe that my goal is to expose students to a wide variety of literature (within reason) and hope that every student finds something that resonates with him/her. Viewed in that light, it's probably a *good* thing that I don't agree 100% with every Printz book - it means that maybe a diversity of tastes are represented.
ReplyDeleteOf course, the pessimist in me can't help worrying that maybe some of the Printz books made the cut simply because no one on the committee objected to them too much. In other words, if everyone LOVED at least one book that others on the committee HATED, isn't it possible that the final award winners are those that inspired the least extreme feelings (pro or con) among committee members? That's certainly one interpretation of Hunt's words...and it's a danger that arises anytime a committee gets involved.
Blakely, I'm sad to hear that you felt "Please Ignore Vera Dietz" was "pedestrian." I'd skimmed the back of it at the bookstore and thought it looked promising. I trust your opinion though, since we have a few favorites in common, so I might give that one a skip :(
ReplyDeleteSusie -
ReplyDeleteBut you might disagree with me... The book is a fun read, and Vera is a like-able protagonist. My comments were focused on its award-winning status. I definitely don't want to give the impression that I hate it!
That's one of my biggest troubles with the whole "literary quality" issue. Do we only read books of the highest quality? I don't know about you, but I sometimes like a little trashy reading. I also wear snarky t-shirts, eat McDonald's fries, and listen to Billy Joel. That doesn't mean I don't also love (and appreciate) cashmere, gourmet food, and Neutral Milk Hotel. You know?
I agree we need "McDonald's of the mind" literature.
ReplyDeleteBut beg to differ on placing Billy Joel in that category of comparable music ;-) How about trading out for Barry Manilow?
No insult intended to Billy Joel. He is the soundtrack of my youth. My parents owned all his records...then all his tapes...and eventually all his CDs. Now I have all his music digitally. I've seen him in concert twice (and I still have my River of Dreams concert tee). I love Billy Joel. But his music isn't as complex, challenging, or ambiguous as a band like Neutral Milk Hotel.
ReplyDeleteBut you can trade for Barry Manilow, if you want. Although, in his defense, he does write the songs that make the whole world sing. And also Lola is one of my favorite tragic heroines. I mean, look at her! Sitting there so refined, drinking herself half blind. She lost her youth and her Tony. Is it any wonder she lost her mind?