3.81
Part of "Degrassi" series
"Snake" by Susin Nielsen is a heartwarming and thought-provoking young adult novel that explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of friendship. The story centers around 14-year-old Cecily, who has always been known as the "snake" of her family due to her tendency to tattle on her siblings. After a humiliating incident at school, Cecily decides to reinvent herself and become someone new. She befriends a group of eccentric kids who are part of the school's theater club, and together they put on a production of "Romeo and Juliet." As Cecily becomes more involved in the play and her new friendships, she begins to learn important lessons about loyalty, trust, and being true to oneself. Nielsen's writing is sharp, witty, and engaging, making "Snake" a page-turner that is hard to put down. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and readers will find themselves rooting for Cecily as she navigates the ups and downs of adolescence. One of the strengths of "Snake" is its exploration of the complexities of family dynamics. Cecily's relationship with her siblings and parents is a central aspect of the story, and Nielsen handles these relationships with sensitivity and nuance. The novel also touches on important issues such as bullying, mental health, and the challenges of growing up in a digital age. Overall, "Snake" is a delightful and poignant coming-of-age story that will resonate with readers of all ages. Its themes of self-discovery, acceptance, and the importance of friendship make it a standout addition to the young adult genre. Highly recommended for fans of authors like Judy Blume, Rebecca Stead, and Sharon Creech...
Jojo Moyes
The Giver of Stars
Fans of 'Snake' by Susin Nielsen will enjoy 'The Giver of Stars' by Jojo Moyes, which features a strong female protagonist and explores themes of friendship and resilience. Set in Depression-era America, the story follows a group of women who form a traveling library, bringing books to people in remote areas of Kentucky. This book is a great choice for those who enjoyed the complex characters and emotional depth of 'Snake'.
Learn MoreJeannette Walls
The Glass Castle
If you liked the raw and honest portrayal of family dynamics in 'Snake', you'll appreciate 'The Glass Castle' by Jeannette Walls. This memoir tells the story of the author's unconventional and often difficult childhood, growing up with parents who were struggling with addiction and mental illness. The book explores themes of resilience, family, and the power of hope.
Learn MoreMarkus Zusak
The Book Thief
For readers who enjoyed the literary focus and coming-of-age themes in 'Snake', 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak is a great choice. Set in Nazi Germany, the story follows a young girl named Liesel who discovers the power of words and books, and uses them to cope with the harsh realities of her world. This book is a beautiful and moving exploration of the human spirit.
Learn MoreSue Monk Kidd
The Secret Life of Bees
Fans of 'Snake' will appreciate the strong female characters and themes of identity and belonging in 'The Secret Life of Bees' by Sue Monk Kidd. Set in the 1960s American South, the story follows a young girl named Lily who runs away from home and finds refuge with a group of beekeeping sisters. This book is a powerful exploration of race, gender, and the search for meaning and purpose.
Learn MoreKathryn Stockett
The Help
If you enjoyed the complex and nuanced portrayal of relationships in 'Snake', you'll appreciate 'The Help' by Kathryn Stockett. Set in the 1960s American South, the story follows a group of black maids who work for white families, and the white woman who dares to tell their stories. This book is a powerful exploration of race, class, and the human capacity for change.
Learn MoreJ.D. Salinger
The Catcher in the Rye
Readers who connected with the coming-of-age themes and raw emotional honesty of 'Snake' will find a kindred spirit in Holden Caulfield, the protagonist of 'The Catcher in the Rye' by J.D. Salinger. This classic novel explores the angst and alienation of adolescence, as Holden grapples with the challenges of growing up and finding his place in the world.
Learn MoreKim Michele Richardson
The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek
Fans of 'Snake' will appreciate the strong female protagonist and themes of resilience and perseverance in 'The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek' by Kim Michele Richardson. Set in Depression-era America, the story follows a young woman named Cussy who delivers library books to people in remote areas of Kentucky, braving dangerous terrain and hostile locals to bring the joy of reading to those who need it most.
Learn MoreStephen Chbosky
The Perks of Being a Wallflower
Readers who enjoyed the coming-of-age themes and raw emotional honesty of 'Snake' will find a kindred spirit in Charlie, the protagonist of 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower' by Stephen Chbosky. This classic novel explores the challenges and triumphs of adolescence, as Charlie navigates the complexities of high school, friendship, and first love.
Learn MoreAlice Walker
The Color Purple
If you liked the raw and honest portrayal of family dynamics and the human spirit in 'Snake', you'll appreciate 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker. This powerful novel tells the story of Celie, a young black woman growing up in the American South, and her journey towards self-discovery, empowerment, and love.
Learn MoreAmy Tan
The Joy Luck Club
Readers who enjoyed the complex and nuanced portrayal of relationships in 'Snake' will find a kindred spirit in 'The Joy Luck Club' by Amy Tan. This powerful novel explores the relationships between four Chinese-American mothers and their daughters, as they navigate the challenges of cultural identity, family, and the search for meaning and purpose.
Learn MoreBarbara Kingsolver
The Poisonwood Bible
Fans of 'Snake' will appreciate the strong female characters and themes of identity and belonging in 'The Poisonwood Bible' by Barbara Kingsolver. Set in the Belgian Congo in the 1960s, the story follows the wife and daughters of an evangelical Baptist minister, as they struggle to find their place in a world that is both foreign and dangerous. This book is a powerful exploration of culture, family, and the human capacity for change.
Learn More