New Book: The Diary of a Young Girl

Title: The Diary of a Young Girl
Author: Anne Frank

Written: 1942
Set: 1942

Anne Frank, a young girl, finds her life completely changing when her family is forced into hiding from the Nazis in an occupied Germany, during World War II. To amuse herself she keeps a diary of her time there. She shares her experiences and thoughts about the people, the events and the arguments in their secret annex...


First thoughts: I have heard so much about Anne Frank and I can't believe its taken me this long to finally read her almost biographical 'story'. Highly eager to get started...

Happy Reading, Kate x

Concluding response: Lies We Tell Ourselves

*SPOILER ALERT* - Do not read if you are reading or are going to read the book. 

I’m not going to lie , the ending was disappointing… despite it being a harrowing story I don’t believe the finale it proved it justice. Nonetheless, I thoroughly enjoyed it. It wouldn't have been something I would have chosen myself but I'm glad I followed the recommendation of my school librarian! There are two main themes – integration (obviously) and homosexuality (yes that was the spoiler - sorry). Sarah and Linda, despite they're colour and statuses, form an unlikely bond that is so unique but dangerous, they must keep it a secret. The way the author changes the narrative makes for an intimate read.  The language used was not particularly challenging and the plot was easy to follow. You will come away from this novel with an insight and probably a lot more knowledge of exactly what happened. 

Interim Response: Lies We Tell Ourselves

So far this novel has been a real eye-opener! I was aware of the struggles that happened during the integration period however I had no idea the bullying was this extreme (I’m not even sure bullying is a significant enough word!). It’s fascinating to see both sides of the story regardless of the fact the opinions are very conflicting – the narrative changes between Linda and Sarah frequently. I don’t want to spoil it for you if you haven’t yet got to the ‘plot twist’ but you’re in for a shock!! 

Introduction Response: Lies We Tell Ourselves

So far the negro students have managed to enter Jefferson High School despite the mob of violent white pupils that greeted them on their arrival. Throughout their day they have to persevere through a multitude of abuse - both verbal and physical. So far I've only read through Sarah's narrative. The introduction is so gripping! Curious to find out where this leads...

New Book: Lies We Tell Ourselves

Title: Lies we tell ourselves 

Author: Robin Talley

Written: 2014
Set: 1959

This is a compelling story narrated by Sarah, a black 17 year old, and Linda, a white girl also 17. We meet them on the first day of Jefferson High School's integration of the races. We experience the trauma Sarah goes through in order to attend a White-Only high school. But we also see the events from the view of Linda - whose father is the editor of an anti-negro newspaper. The two girls find themselves involuntarily entwined in each others lives. But no-one can know the truth about them...

First thoughts: I know very little about this next book -I have never heard of the author or the title. I can only deduce from the cover and blurb that it is about two girls during the risky period of integration in America. This was recommended by the librarian of my school so let's give it a go!

Happy reading, Kate x