Generally, I look for a few things in these books: clear, simple writing interesting, fast-paced storyline characters that are easy to relate to. “I am always looking for good high interest-low reading level books for my adult basic ed students. Her writing shines as she portrays the complexities of racism through Meringue’s relationship with Jeff.”Ĭollege of New Caledonia Instructor recommends Blow: Lundgren is to be commended for portraying Asians within a contemporary context rather than in stereotypical ideals. “In Blow, Lundgren features cultures not often seen in young adult literature, namely Filipino and Vietnamese Canadians. Lundgren demonstrates a deft hand as she ensnares the reader in her characters’ plights.”

“In talking about drugs, Lundgren approaches the subject from a bystander’s perspective so as to tacitly help teens envision how they might be able to assist friends who are caught in similar situations. She lives in Victoria, British Columbia, where she teaches English and Creative Writing to college students. JODI LUNDGREN is the author of several published short stories and essays as well as the novels Touched and Leap. How can she get herself out without snitching? By the time Meringue figures out what’s going on, a bigger drug dealer is moving in on Jeff’s business - and on her. Little does she know that Jeff has been using his father’s pizza shop as a cover-up for his small-scale drug deals. When her friend Jeff asks her to cover his pizza route, Meringue jumps at the chance to cruise around town on her mother’s scooter. Now she’s sixteen, she can drive on her own. Meringue, can tell, the only good thing about moving from Vancouver to Red Deer following her parents’ divorce is getting a head-start on earning her Learner’s Permit.

Leap by Jodi Lundgren