From School Library Journal
Gr 8-10--While the foreword states that one of the purposes of this series is to "spark readers' interest," it is hard to imagine that this book will fulfill that mission. It is a compilation of 15 essays that address the important themes in the diary and critical assessments of it, and discuss its legacy. However, several of the selections are wordy or unclear. Written as stand-alone pieces, they become repetitive when read in succession as few provide fresh perspectives or new insights. More than once, readers are told that Anne received the diary for her birthday, how it was left behind in the raid of the Secret Annex, and how Otto Frank edited it and searched for a publisher. The same quotes are found in multiple chapters as well. "I want to go on living even after my death!" "I still believe, in spite of everything, that people are truly good at heart," and "If God lets me live, I shall achieve more than mother ever did" are powerful statements in the context of the diary. Unfortunately, their impact is diminished here. Young adults should be allowed to experience the power and beauty of The Diary of a Young Girl without enduring lessons in literary criticism.
Leigh Ann Jones, Gee Jr. High, Pilot Point, TX
Copyright 1998 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
