Please Ignore Vera Dietz Book Review

 Noah Hunter 

Mr. Davidson 

Contemporary Literature 

15, December 2023 

Noah’s Book review 

*Spoiler Warning* 

"Please Ignore Vera Dietz" is a young adult novel written by A.S. King. The story revolves around Vera Dietz, a high school senior who is grappling with the death of her best friend, Charlie Kahn. As Vera copes with her grief, she is haunted by unanswered questions about Charlie's life and death. The novel unfolds through a mix of narrative styles, including Vera's first-person perspective, flashbacks, and interjections from a group of neighborhood "Pagoda" spirits. The narrative explores themes of friendship, betrayal, and the complexities of adolescence. Through Vera's journey, the novel delves into the impact of secrets, the search for identity, and the importance of self-forgiveness. The unique storytelling and emotional depth make "Please Ignore Vera Dietz" a compelling exploration of the human experience for young readers and beyond. 

This novel takes a twist from regular novels and attacks very ignored problems about the complexities of adolescence. The author’s use of a very harsh conflict creates a story that is so much more unique than other narratives. Vera struggles with very difficult teenage problems, that are not as uncommon as one may think. Even characters around Vera struggle heavily with harsh problems that are usually ignored in society. Bill Corso, the star high school athlete, did not know how to read but was still getting through high school. “’Tomorrow, you’ll read us chapter 3, Mr. Corso’. Bill nods as if that didn't scare him, but I know it did” (158). Bill skipped class for the rest of the week, but no teacher stopped and tried to help Bill learn. This is a very real problem, and this novel perfects the depiction of it. This novel is very bold when it comes to displaying deeply ignored problems in society. It depicts a very real picture of what life is like growing up. It creates a very realistic plot and makes for a very exciting narration. The way the novel attacks harsh themes makes it so much more unique and enjoyable than other books. 

The repeating theme in this novel is to not ignore problems. That theme creates a very important and powerful message for readers. In the novel, most problems are just ignored, leading them to only get worse and never improve. This is a very realistic problem in society. Major problems just get ignored because nobody wants to talk about them, leading them to just get worse. “I liked pretending that I didn't have a mother and that my father simply caught me when the stork dropped me,” Vera also just ignores her problems, which is an extremely unhealthy way to cope (160). It makes for a relatable conflict. This theme makes for an extremely emotional novel as the effects of ignoring problems are clearly present. I really enjoy this theme and it makes the novel a very good and emotional read. It is just so unique compared to cliché or overused themes or main ideas.  

Please Ignore Vera Dietz, is an amazing novel. Its harsh conflicts and theme of do not ignore problems made the narrative so impactful to read. It plays on the reality of society and is very up to date with its conflicts. The novel’s ability to display this theme makes it such an overwhelming read and it really plays on emotion. I really enjoyed this book and do very much recommend it. This novel is perfect for teenagers and up as it uses real conflicts from growing up. I really enjoyed this book and hope others can have a similar experience with it too. 

 

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