Mary Wrenn

The Yo-Yo Diaries

Children & Youth

“The Yo-Yo Diaries by Nancy Lee Bethea is a relevant, powerful, and heartfelt novel in verse about fourteen-year-old Bloom who navigates an accusation of plagiarism on her state writing test, her 6-year-old brother’s diagnosis of leukemia, and her parents’ busy lives. Through poetry, journal writing, and an opportunity for community service with Gran, Bloom discovers not only her inner voice but the power of storytelling as a connection between generations and finding one’s truth. The intergenerational connections suggest that truth and identity are discovered through relationship and shared stories. An inspirational and perfect read for middle and high school students to explore how creative writing, self-reflection, and connection can inform identity and foster development of authentic voice.”