Sarah
Skilton. Bruised. Amulet Books 2013 274
$16.95 ISBN 9781419703874 hs Realistic Fiction E-BN
A young black belt hides under a
table during a hold-up and must thereafter contend with the guilt and trauma
stemming from this incident, while dealing with high school, friends, family, and boys, in this powerful,
beautifully written book. Sixteen-year-old Imogen freezes
during a hold-up at a local diner and finds herself overwhelmed with guilt
because she's a black belt in tae kwon do, and is therefore convinced that she
ought to have been able to stop the robbery from ending as it did -- with the robber
being shot. Filled with doubts
and self-loathing, Imogen must work through her trauma alongside a young man
who was also present and was similarly affected by the experience. Imogen is a complex, relatable heroine who must navigate the
difficulties of PTSD, first love, and changing dynamics within her circle of
friends. Skilton's story will
undoubtedly appeal to teenage readers, be they martial artists or not, for her characters
and settings are very realistic, and their voices will resonate. There is nothing that needs to be changed about this book -- it is exactly right.
Martial arts-Fiction, Trauma-Fiction, Friendship-Fiction --Bethany
Geleskie
