Book Review: I See Reality: Twelve Short Stories

Book Review: I See Reality: Twelve Short StoriesTitle:  I See Reality: Twelve Stories About Real Life
Author: Kristin Elizabeth Clark
Publisher: Farrar, Strauss and Giroux
Genres: Contemporary, Young Adult Fiction
Publication Date: January 26, 2016
Rating: three-half-stars

Summary (from Goodreads):

Twelve original stories by top MCPG authors explore real issues for real teens.

Through prose and comics alike, these heart-pounding short stories ask hard questions about a range of topics from sexuality and addiction to violence and immigration. Here is the perfect tool for starting tough discussions or simply as an introduction to realistic literary fiction. In turns funny, thought-provoking, and heartbreaking, I See Reality will resonate with today's teens long after the last page has been turned.

Contributing authors include Jay Clark, Kristin Clark, Heather Demetrios, Stephen Emond, Patrick Flores-Scott, Faith Hicks, Trisha Leaver, Kekla Magoon, Marcella Pixley, James Preller, Jason Schmidt, and Jordan Sonnenblick.

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❃ I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. ❃


Book Review: I See Reality: Twelve Short Stories

I See Reality is a book of twelve short stories filled with a set of very realistic stories written by a variety of YA authors. This book tackles issues such as addiction and AIDS and addresses them in a way that is believable. While many of these stories may not have been my cup of tea, there were quite a few that are absolutely fantastic.

❀ Twelve Short Stores About Social Issues

The fact that this anthology contains stories surrounding various social issues is quite refreshing and eye-opening. The topics that are discussed are presented in a way that educates, yet brings the issues to light in a manner that does not have a condescending tone. I found this to be a very interesting set of stories that tackle important issues of today. This book can be an asset in any classroom discussing the topics contained within.

❀ Blackbird by Trisha Leaver is a favourite

Blackbird by Trisha Leaver is my absolute favourite story in the collection. This particular story is about a girl who is part of tech crew, yet is also a truly amazing singer who is afraid to show her talents on stage. The main character is also faced with the judgments of others because of an act committed by her brother. Both the storyline and the writing are fantastic. Definitely one worth reading. It was a story that I wish had been a little bit longer, as I found it so relatable!

❀ This Book Will Appeal to Many

As there are multiple stories in an anthology, it is always difficult to give a star rating or even review these types of books. I See Reality contains some works that are definitely five star material, however there were a few stories that were just not my taste. I do think that this book of realistic fiction is one that will appeal to many.

❀ Not to be Missed

If you are looking to read something that deals with realistic issues in a manner that is both entertaining and educational, I suggest that you pick up I See Reality: Twelve Short Stories. There are some incredible authors and fabulous writing that makes this a collection not to be missed.


Book Quotes: I see Reality: Twelve Short Stories

“I am breaking up with you today.”

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About The Candid Cover

Olivia ❀ YA book blogger, Starbucks lover, novice New Yorker, & professional bibliophile.

6 thoughts on “Book Review: I See Reality: Twelve Short Stories

  1. Alecia (@alecias14) says:

    This would definitely be a fantastic addition in the classrooms!! I’m not surprised you didn’t enjoy every story as it does cover a wide range of issues and there are plenty of stories so I think it’s likely that not every one wouldbe your cup of tea.

  2. Jaime Lynn says:

    I think I may not be the target audience for these stories, but I know even without reading it, that it is a book that every highschooler should read. The issues that are addressed within this book are so prevalent in today’s society. Having a book that touches on each issue is a great way to make teens think, especially the bookish ones, like I was at that age!

  3. debk987 says:

    It is such a great concept for a book and one that I think should be available to every highschooler. I haven’t read it myself yet but I can’t wait to get my hands on it. Great review.

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