Book details
Alma Presses Play
Description
Alma's life is a constant of halfways: She's half-Chinese, half-Jewish; her parents spend half the time fighting, and the other half silent; and, at thirteen, she's halfway through becoming a woman. Then comes the year when everything changes, and her life is overtaken by constant endings: friends move away, romances bloom and wither, her parents file for divorce, and just like that her childhood seems to be over. Among this world of confusing beginnings, middles, and endings, could there be a roadmap for Alma to truly find herself?
Age
12-17
Text complexity
beginner
Length
336 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'Alma Presses Play' offers a vivid portrayal of life in the 1980s, providing readers with a rich cultural and historical context that can deepen their understanding of the era and its impact on contemporary society.
- Character Development: The novel follows the protagonist, Alma, through her formative years, allowing readers to witness her personal growth and the challenges she faces. This character-driven narrative can be both engaging and inspiring, especially for young adult readers.
- Poetic Prose: Tina Cane's background as a poet is evident in her lyrical writing style, which can be a pleasure to read and may also inspire readers to appreciate the beauty and power of language.
- Universal Themes: Despite being set in a specific time period, the book touches on universal themes such as identity, family dynamics, and the journey to adulthood. These themes resonate with a wide audience, making the book relevant and relatable to many readers.