Buy new:
-76% $4.85$4.85
$4.84 delivery November 2 - 4
Ships from: booksandbling Sold by: booksandbling
Save with Used - Good
$2.00$2.00
$3.98 delivery November 4 - 5
Ships from: glenthebookseller Sold by: glenthebookseller
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
The Mockingbirds Paperback – January 2, 2012
Purchase options and add-ons
Others have handbooks.
Themis Academy has the Mockingbirds.
From the glossy pages of its admissions brochure, the prestigious Themis Academy appears perfect in every way: exceptional academics, extraordinary students, the kind of extracurriculars to make an Ivy League proud, and zero instances of student misbehavior. But this boarding school isn't as pristine as it appears. There's a dark underbelly to the perfect record the Themis administration flaunts. Student infractions are rampant, and it's up to a secret vigilante society, the Mockingbirds, to maintain order on campus--a responsibility their members take very seriously.
Alex Patrick never thought she would need the Mockingbirds. But when she's date-raped by another student, she doesn't know where else to go. As much as she'd like to forget what happened, she can't escape the daily reminders of what went wrong that terrible night. Before she can summon the courage to take a stand, she'll have to accept that her battle for justice is not hers alone. Standing up for someone, especially yourself, is worth the fight.
- Print length368 pages
- LanguageEnglish
- PublisherLittle, Brown Books for Young Readers
- Publication dateJanuary 2, 2012
- Grade level10 and up
- Reading age15 years and up
- Dimensions5.5 x 0.91 x 8.25 inches
- ISBN-109780316090544
- ISBN-13978-0316090544
- Lexile measureHL720L
The Amazon Book Review
Book recommendations, author interviews, editors' picks, and more. Read it now
Editorial Reviews
Review
* "First-time author Whitney boldly addresses date rape, vigilantism, and academic politics in an intense and timely novel... Besides showing skill in executing suspense and drama, Whitney masterfully evokes the complexity of her protagonist's emotions, particularly her intense longing to feel 'normal' again."―Publishers Weekly (Starred review)
"[Whitney] writes with smooth assurance and a propulsive rhythm as she follows Alex through the Mockingbird's trial process and its accompanying emotional storm of confusion, shame, fear, and finally, empowerment. Authentic and illuminating, this strong debut explores vital teen topics of sex and violence; crime and punishment; ineffectual authority; and the immeasurable, healing influence of friendship and love."―Booklist
"Extraordinary...Shocking and eye-opening, this book is hard to put down."―The Guardian
"Puts a compelling and ingenious twist on everything you think you know about sex, violence, victimhood, justice--and the true meaning of power."―Gayle Forman, author of If I Stay
"Raw and riveting. Deserves a place of honor...alongside it's soul sister, Speak."―Justina Chen, author of North of Beautiful
"In The Mockingbirds, Daisy Whitney has written an unflinchingly honest story about the importance of taking a stand and speaking out. An emotionally powerful debut that will leave readers breathless."―Courtney Summers, author of Cracked Up to Be
About the Author
Product details
- ASIN : 0316090549
- Publisher : Little, Brown Books for Young Readers; Reprint edition (January 2, 2012)
- Language : English
- Paperback : 368 pages
- ISBN-10 : 9780316090544
- ISBN-13 : 978-0316090544
- Reading age : 15 years and up
- Lexile measure : HL720L
- Grade level : 10 and up
- Item Weight : 11.2 ounces
- Dimensions : 5.5 x 0.91 x 8.25 inches
- Best Sellers Rank: #3,974,265 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
- Customer Reviews:
About the author

Daisy Whitney is the author of the award-winning novel THE MOCKINGBIRDS and its sequel THE RIVALS. She is grateful for all the readers who have read and been touched by this story.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers find the story excellent, compelling, and engaging. They describe the pacing as well-paced, satisfying, and compulsively readable. Readers find the characters interesting, likable, and well-written. They praise the writing as tight and original. Readers mention the book is an enjoyable, entertaining read that deals with important issues. Additionally, they appreciate the romance built-in.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers find the story excellent, compelling, and engaging. They say it's an amazing debut novel with an awesome concept. Readers also mention the characters seem real.
"...The characters were well developed and seemed real to me, even the secondary ones, like Amy, who turned out to be my favorite of them all...." Read more
"...A brilliant read. Daisy Whitney is a Rockstar, and I can't wait to read her next book, already in the process of publication...." Read more
"...Whitney takes on the difficult issue of date rape and she handles it with honesty...." Read more
"...Daisy Whitney wrote an original, truthful, engaging novel that readers are sure to love...." Read more
Customers find the pacing of the book well-paced, compulsively readable, and satisfying. They say the writing is tight and the plot moves along quickly. Readers also mention the premise is fantastic and the book is a very good read.
"...Plus she isn't jumping into anything believe me, it is very slow.......sweet, sweet....slow and caring...." Read more
"...I wouldn't say the plot's pacing was perfect, it was still a very enjoyable read...." Read more
"...Not only is the story enjoyable as a reader, as a writer I also enjoyed the structuring Whitney has deftly built up in THE MOCKINGBIRDS and just as..." Read more
"...The writing is tight, the plot moves along quickly and I think it's one of those YA books that will cross over to many adult female readers...." Read more
Customers find the characters interesting, well-written, and likable. They also appreciate the great names and backstories. Readers describe the book as insightful, real, and genuine.
"...Something I noticed right away was how packed with character and atmosphere the first few pages were...." Read more
"...out to be a book with an awesome concept (The Mockingbirds), a likable heroine (Alex) and love interest (eh, lets leave that blank for now) and a..." Read more
"...we fell in love with in Book 1 as well as introducing equally as enjoyable new characters...." Read more
"...There was also some very interesting people that I couldn't have been more excited to read about. The Mockingbirds is a book you won't want to miss...." Read more
Customers find the writing quality of the book very well-written and tight. They also mention the plot moves along quickly.
"...Downloading the next in the series right now!!!Beautifully written." Read more
"...The writing was good too, and though I wouldn't say the plot's pacing was perfect, it was still a very enjoyable read...." Read more
"...The writing is tight, the plot moves along quickly and I think it's one of those YA books that will cross over to many adult female readers...." Read more
"...Well written, informative and Daisy let's see your next book soon!" Read more
Customers find the book original and genuine. They also say it's a familiar style that pulls them right into the story.
"...I couldn't help but sympathize with her. Daisy Whitney wrote an original, truthful, engaging novel that readers are sure to love...." Read more
"...Unfortunately, I didn't get my way.The Mockingbirds was very unique and very original, and I absolutely loved the ending...." Read more
"...They didn't feel like stereotypes. It was touching, it was beautiful in many ways, and I think it did a great job of telling a story I don't feel..." Read more
"Ms. Whitney has a familiar style that pulls you right into the story and makes you feel like you are the main character...." Read more
Customers find the book enjoyable, entertaining, and helpful. They say it's a great winter read for young adults and adults alike.
"...They're not only entertaining, they're also helpful...." Read more
"...Overall, The Mockingbirds was an enjoyable read, it just wasn't the fantastic read I wanted it to be. Maybe my exceptions were just too high...?..." Read more
"...Curl up with a cup of hot cider and enjoy. This is a great winter read for young adults and adults alike!" Read more
"Good young adult book that deals with some important issues. Could lead to good group discussions for a book club." Read more
Customers find the book informative, entertaining, and helpful. They say it deals with some important issues.
"...They're not only entertaining, they're also helpful...." Read more
"...Well written, informative and Daisy let's see your next book soon!" Read more
"Good young adult book that deals with some important issues. Could lead to good group discussions for a book club." Read more
Customers find the romance in the book well-done. They also say it's the most nuanced look at date rape and issues surrounding sexuality.
"...I loved reading how she grew as the story progressed. The romance built in was well done because it showed the ability to choose...." Read more
"...I particularly liked the very carefully handled romantic subplot that played out post-rape and how Alex tries to overcome what has happened to her...." Read more
"This book is the most nuanced look at date rape and the issues surrounding sexual consent that I've ever seen in YA lit...." Read more
-
Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
I didn't put aside this book for anything less than meals or sleeping. I was attached from page one and I'm still holding onto it. I had a $25 gift card from Amazon and I used some of that to buy myself a copy of The Mockingbirds. This is a book I want on my "favorites" shelf next to my desk.
This isn't a "Last Friday Night", Katy Perry type of story. If it taught me anything, it's the human capacity for hurting others.
The Mockingbirds wasn't a pity-party type of story. Alex was a fleshed out character. She laughed, cried, raged. Every page wasn't dominated by what had happened, but it was realistically always in her thoughts. I loved reading how she grew as the story progressed. The romance built in was well done because it showed the ability to choose.
Something I noticed right away was how packed with character and atmosphere the first few pages were. I had an instant understanding of Alex's character and how things stood at Themis.
Three things I know this second: I have morning breath, I'm naked, and I'm waking up next to a boy I don't know.
And there's a fourth thing now. It's ridiculously bright in my room. I drape my forearm over my eyes, blocking out the morning sun beating in through my windows, when it hits me--the fifth thing.
These are not my windows.
Which means this is not my bed.
My head pounds as I turn to look at this boy whose name I don't remember. He's still asleep, his chest moving up and down in time to an invisible metronome. I scan his features, his nose, his lips, searching for something, anything that rings a bell. A clue to connect me to him. But remembering last night is like looking through frosted glass. I see nothing. But I can hear one word, loud and clear.
Leave.
Excerpted from hardcover edition, pages 1-2
I loved the whole book. I can only appreciate this book from a creative and literary standpoint--I myself have never been in such a situation as this. For those who have, I can imagine how this must have struck home. This book should be taught at schools and assigned as summer reading instead of the garbage most schools make high school kids read. Teenagers suffering in silence might actually learn to find the courage to speak up by reading The Mockingbirds rather than some of the rather useless stuff they give summer assignments for.
(Originally posted on The Authoress: Book Reviews & More)
Not an easy subject to deal with and especially with a YA novel. But beautifully handled. It begins with Alex waking in a room she doesn't know, naked in a bed with a guy. Not usual for her and this is where it all starts. But she doesn't scream Date Rape to start off with as she doesn't know that is what has happened to her, she can not remember what happened..... so she gets out of there as quickly as she can asking a few important questions such as ......did we? She pulls open the door doing the one thing she should have done last night...... 'leave' Because you're supposed to remember your first time....
As soon as she gets back to her dorm, her roommate T.S questions her about the night and fun and flirty until Alex tells her she can't remember..that is when T.S suggests calling in Alex's Sister Casey, who un-beknown to Alex started The Mockingbirds. We find out the reason for this later in the book, it brought a tear to my eye, there were a few tear jerking moments in this.
I loved the whole concept of The Mockingbirds, the council, the advocates, runners, the secret system. The way those who can't or won't go to Teachers, Adults or Police had their peers to turn to. I know this may not be for everyone, a criminal conviction is of course ideal and is suggested and pushed to Alex, but she doesn't want it....For those who don't want that, this method is an option. A peer judgement. They are there for her throughtout, walking her to class, sitting with her in the Caf, bringing her Food and just looking out for her. Being her Stength and support, this was pure heart swelling moments for me. Each member of that group had been through something and come out stronger for it.
We get taken back to that night with flashbacks, so we do get to know the actual story, the real truth. So you will find out what happened. Thank Goodness, Carter the Guy who Date Raped Alex Daisy really painted him well him as the Villain as he made my flesh crawl throughout.
There is a Love interest in the form of Martin, she was Friends with Martin before and was flirting right before she started talking to Carter, in fact, it is a bit of a sore subject for them both as it is the reason she goes up to Carter in the first place as Martin disappeared on her when she went on a bathroom break....Why the love interest when she was Date-Raped? Well, she didn't remember it straight off for one, she didn't remember the full details fully, and she is taking back control of her life, why should she let Carter have this control. Plus she isn't jumping into anything believe me, it is very slow.......sweet, sweet....slow and caring. Martin is an absolute angel and is also getting into trouble !
Did I like the Characters? Yes, loved them all, although it was mainly about Alex, but you learn a lot about the others and i hope to learn more of them in the next in the series.
Did I get emotional? Yes! I had tears at the end when Casey was describing why she started The Mockingbirds. During the trial. When Alex sought out her teacher for advice. I cheered and Jeered when she was role playing with Henry. Amy, ohhh Amy. I shed a tear for Amy and the Book.
The Mockingbirds flyer Rhyme.....gave me Goosebumps!
Downloading the next in the series right now!!!
Beautifully written.
There were so many mixed reviews about this book I didn't know what to expect. And this turned out to be a book with an awesome concept (The Mockingbirds), a likable heroine (Alex) and love interest (eh, lets leave that blank for now) and a great message.
The characters were well developed and seemed real to me, even the secondary ones, like Amy, who turned out to be my favorite of them all.
The writing was good too, and though I wouldn't say the plot's pacing was perfect, it was still a very enjoyable read. The ending was really good, and though the main thing was definitely predictable, there was still a minor twist I think was perfect.
What I really loved, though, was The Mockingbird's concept. It was awesome, and I thought it was even more awesome that it was Alex's sister who created them.
So, if you're looking for a book that is not fluffy, but not that darkly written either, and are interested in this date rape issue, or if you simply want to know about The Mockingbirds, read it.
Top reviews from other countries
I found The Mockingbirds very hard to put down. It's a very strong book both in writing and with the characters, most of whom I found to be really well drawn. It's brutally honest as Alex starts remembering things, and the roller coaster of emotions that go with the events. Even down to the littler details, like how she took different routes to classes to avoid the boy and wouldn't enter the cafeteria for lunch. I loved the idea of the Mockingbirds and how they worked too. I liked seeing Alex adapt and grow and stand up throughout the book and her reactions felt very real. It was hard reading at times because I got so wrapped up in Alex's emotions it felt like I was right there with her.
One thing that did bother me a bit though and stop this from getting a higher rating from me, is the lack of adult involvement. I can understands why Alex was adamant not to go to the police, although I wish any girl in real life facing the same situation would go to them. And I can understand her hesitance to speak up to any of her teachers as well, but I really wished she would have. I don't think it's the kind of thing where a student shouldn't find an adult to talk to. There is one scene in particular where there are a couple of teachers talking with Alex and another student after an incident in class and I would seriously hope that that is not a real portrayal of how any teachers at any boarding school would act now!
However, it is still a very strong book. I really liked how things worked out in the end and the roles various characters played, I won't mention details for spoilers sake but it was something I found very satisfying. It's a heart wrenching, powerful read and one I'd highly recommend! It is brutally honest and not easy as it doesn't hide any of the dark facts about date rape, but those are reasons to read it, not avoid it. This is a subject that needs to be talked about more, not less, so that girls who are raped don't feel that they can't come forward, so they can stand up and take their lives back.
To begin with I didn't quite get Alex and what had happened to her and I think to myself a couple of times "what is the big deal" and "get over yourself". That said I warmed to her as the book progressed and as the story went on you start to feel for her more and more as more of her story comes out. I've read quite a nasty review of this and I think that might have been where the reader goes wrong as they said they only read the first few chapters.
This book deals with the issue of date rape quite bravely and has a unique idea to help the main character to deal with her problems. The whole story centers around the idea of consent and the fact that that no response doesn't imply a "yes". I was fascinated by this idea as it is so obvious but I imagine it is the type of excuse used but a variety of people in a variety of different circumstances to get away with whatever they like.
The story had a whole host of characters who were pretty cool. Alex herself was interesting and I loved her friends, TS and Maia and her sister Casey. Casey is an interesting character in that she set up the Mockingbirds and I loved finding out her reasons for doing so as the book unfolded. I also loved Martin (he is so cute) and was rooting for him throughout.
The whole premise of the Mockingbirds was fascinating. I was somewhat disturbed by the school system where the system does not deal with pupil behaviour but once I got past that the idea seemed ingenious in that it gave the culprit of a given crime their just deserves and made them accountable for what they had done (Thinking about this now reminds me of the end scene of cruel intentions - fab film). I like how they started subtly by removing privelleges the pupil should have earnt before openly bringing them to trial and then justice.
The only little critiscsm I have is that I expected the Mockingbirds to be a bit more sinister from the way the blurb read which they weren't so I spent the entire book waiting for something creepy or nasty to happen to Carter which it didn't.
All in all an awesome book which is well worth the read.
