Title: Jumped
Author: Rita Williams-Garcia
Summary: When should you speak up? Trina, a pretty girl who is pretty self-absorbed, cuts through Dominique’s space in the hallway before school. An insulted Dominique vows to beat her down at 2:45 when school lets out. Trina doesn’t realize it – but Leticia, who witnesses the scene and overhears Dominique, does. When Leticia calls her friend to gossip about what just happened, she is urged to warn Trina…but why should she? She and Trina aren’t friends.
As the school day goes on and the clock winds down, we follow each girl through classes, lunch, and interactions with teachers, friends and guys. Trina, oblivious to what is in store for her, hangs her artwork. Dominique, angry about being benched for basketball games because of one failing grade hustles to get back on the court. And Leticia ignores her friend’s pleas to do something, and waits to see if Trina will really get jumped.
Who will like this book?: People who like gritty, disturbing, realistic fiction. None of the girls are heroes – you won’t be rooting for any of them and the ending of the story will leave you shaken. A great read for people who like stories that make you think.
If you like this, try this: Snitch by Alison van Diepen.
Recommended by: Nicole, Teen Librarian