What My Mother Doesn't Know

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Sones, Sonya. 2003. What My Mother Doesn't Know. New York: Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing Division. ISBN 0689855532

In this poem verse novel, Sones introduces Sophie, a fifteen year-old  girl and her experiences with love and other coming of age events. In her intro, Sophie states "This book is about me. It tells the heart-stoppingly riveting story of my first love. And also of my second. And, okay, my third love, too." Sophie tells about her life experiences with family, love, and friends.

This verse novel is perfect for reluctant readers who want to read the experiences of a young lady and how she deals with things. This is a quick read and very entertaining. Most young adults can relate to the events in Sophie's life and that's what makes it so appealing to them. Although this book is on the Banned Book List, I believe it is a 'must have' for libraries.

If you enjoy this book by Sonya Sones, you may also enjoy: One of Those Hideous Books Where the Mother Dies, What My Girlfriend Doesn't Know, and Stop Pretending: What Happened When My Big Sister Went Crazy.

Awards Include: 

Winner of the Iowa Teen Book Award (2005-2006)

Michigan Thumbs Up Award Honor Book (2002)

American Library Association Best Books for Young Adults (2002)

American Library Association Top Ten Quick Pick for Reluctant Readers (2002)

Booklist Editor’s Choice (2001)
Texas Lone Star State Reading List Choice (2003-2004) 

Kirkus Reviews

Starred review "A verse experience that will leave readers sighing with recognition and satisfaction."

Booklist

Starred review "Fast, funny, touching."

Further Activities for What My Mother Doesn't Know can be found at:

http://www.edb.utexas.edu/resources/booksR4teens/book_reviews/book_reviews.php?book_id=124

http://www.edb.utexas.edu/resources/booksR4teens/book_reviews/book_reviews.php?book_id=124
http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/book/what-my-mother-doesnt-know