Nadia L King, Jenna’s Truth, Aulexic, 10 Oct 2016, 111pp., $14.99 (pbk), ISBN 9780994569004
This is an unpretentious example of bibliotherapy – using books to assist readers to overcome problems. Cyberbullying, drinking, sex and suicide are all discussed as Jenna tries to appeal for help for all of them. No one will come to her aid until she is at her wits end, ready to finish it all.
The story takes up 75 pages of the novel. The next 33 are devoted to people and places that care for troubled young, questions to ask the young people around you, activities to help overcome problems, and a glossary of Australian slang. It is written in the language of a teenager, although the message is more likely to be taken up by adults concerned about the difficulties faced by Jenna. It could be useful in the classroom for raising awareness, and as a discussion point for strategies to help others.
Reviewed by Stella Lees
