It’s really awesome when a book adds something new and slightly unexpected to the young adult genre. Initially I was not entirely sure what to expect when I picked up brightly colored The Vigilante Poets Of Selwyn Academy by Kate Hattemer. I thought maybe this might be one of those books in verse. Or it might be about poets going guerilla. What I got though, was a book that ended up being more than surface. Hattemer’s book has a fantastic message and is one that I would not hesitate recommending if you want a funny book with a whole lot of heart.
Ethan Andrezejczak goes to Selwyn Academy, a school for the arts in Minneapolis. He has a solid group of friends comprised of Luke who has this magnetic sort of pull, Jackson who is very scientific and borderline genius, and Elizabeth who is Jackson’s cousin. The four really like their school and its atmosphere. Unfortunately, the entire vibe of the school changes when it is selected to host a new reality show on kTV called For Art’s Sake. The show pits students against each other for a crack at a scholarship to any art school. Students go from discussing Manet versus Monet in the halls between classes to discussing reality TV. Luke decides this is a tragedy and so together with Ethan, Jackson, and Elizabeth generates a ‘zine featuring a long poem protesting For Art’s Sake. Ethan goes along with this scheme, yet he does not want the show to be canceled because his crush, Maura Heldsman is on the show and he wants her to win.
As far as main characters go, Ethan is interesting. He’s easy to relate to because he is the normal one in his friend group. He is not outstanding. He is not leading the revolt against For Art’s Sake. He goes along with the revolt and participates, which I think a few of us would do too. It’s interesting in that he comes to a few realizations throughout the book about his interactions with others and with himself. I suppose what this book really has going for it is the main character development. Trust, these life lessons aren’t hokey or anything like that, but genuine good ones that I think we all come to at one point or another.
Kate Hattemer’s The Vigilante Poets Of Selwyn Academy is written in first person featuring Ethan. It’s quite humorous. There’s a gerbil who plays a large role. The cast of characters is diverse and legitimately interesting. There’s a smidgen of romance, but honestly, the most important part is the friendship theme. I think I would definitely pick up another book by Hattemer.
Latest posts by April (Books&Wine) (see all)
- 5 Audiobooks I Just Listened To: Mini Reviews - May 30, 2023
- 5 Contemporary Romances To Pick Up RIGHT NOW - May 29, 2023
- 5 Young Adult Books I’ve Recently Picked Up - May 14, 2023
Your mention of humor sold me on this one! I’ve been realizing lately how few funny YA books I read and how I need to be more conscious of that! Plus, I’ve heard positive buzz for this one here and there – should just make the time for it. Thanks for the review, April!
Sara @ The Hiding Spot recently posted..Covered: Hardcover to Paperback Redesigns (1)