Pistes d'exploration

The verse novel is a crossover genre that combines elements of drama, poetry and the traditional novel. The multi-voice verse novel is a modern means of delivering a series of monologues designed to provide a more complete account and a sense of narrative wholeness through the fragmented voices of different speakers.

The first voice of a multi-voice verse novel usually belongs to the protagonist. In small groups, discuss the use of Annabelle as a protagonist. What information does she provide the reader? How does her voice compare with others?

Through immersion in text and small group discussion, explore the features and conventions of multi-voice verse novels. Consider how the verse novel relates to other text types (e.g. novel, poetry, drama).

Skim the book and do a quick-write about its unique text features.

Explain how the author’s use of the various text features helped or hindered your ability to connect with the characters? 

Continue the story for your three favourite characters. Write in multi-voice verse using the novel as your model.

Consider the romantic relationships in this novel. Compare them with those in other novels. Which are healthiest? Most realistic? Justify your answers.

Bruiser

Mots-clés

Realistic , friendship , grief , identity , multiple voices , novels in verse , parent-child relationships , perspectives , relationships , school life

Commentaire descriptif

Stacey used to be friends with Annabelle and Mary, but now she’s busy with a cool new boyfriend, Mark. Annabelle’s a dedicated student who discovers social justice and activism. Christopher is a quiet science guy, who finds the courage to reach for the girl he wants—Annabelle. Mary is a gifted pianist, overcoming her painful shyness to perform in the talent show. Meanwhile, Mark is very troubled by the recent death of his father, killed in a road accident. Each of these interconnecting storylines is conveyed through penetrating free verse. While offering a fascinating story of growing—and outgrowing—friendships, this novel also provides a fine introduction to the powers of poetry. Varied text layout emphasizes the unique rhythms and moods of each poem-chapter. The voices of characters are well differentiated, and parental perspectives get page-time too, creating another valuable layer of perspective: “I catch her mid-stepon the upstairs landingbetween our bedrooms.Her foot is raised, frozen by the click of our door.” The artistic strength of this story is matched by its emotionally satisfying arc, as characters discover the many kinds of happy endings life is waiting to provide.