Classic

Weetzie Bat by Francesca Lia Block

Bibliographic Information: Block, Francesca L. Weetzie Bat. New York: Harper Collins, 1989. Print. ISBN: 978-0060736255. $8.99.

Review:  Weetzie Bat is a young “skinny girl with a bleach-blond flat-top” (2) living in Los Angeles with her best friend, Dirk. The book chronicles the lives of Weetzie, Dirk, and their dog and their respective partners, My Secret Agent Lover Man and Duck. The book is as much about the city of Los Angeles as it is about the characters. Francesca’s descriptions of LA and of the city’s landmarks are so vivid and accessible that you can feel how much the characters love and are a part of their city. This work cannot be categorized into on genre. It is a romance when Weetzie and Dirk are longing for love, and then find partners. It is part fantasy, such as when Weetzie is given a magic lamp and makes three wishes to a genie. It is also a very moving drama. At one point, Weetzie loses her father and she and her friends experience grief together.

Francesca’s writing is very poetic; the author uses very efficient, yet very descriptive language. At only 113 pages, the author covers so many ups and downs in these people’s lives from deciding to have children, to the pain of loss, to the happiness they find in being with each other. This is definitely a very odd book, but I can understand why it is a classic. The characters are relatable, but at the same time live very absurd and interesting lives. I thought the story flowed beautifully from beginning to end and was impressed at what a large story the author was able to tell in such a small space. I would recommend this book to young open-minded readers, because it is so strange. I think this book is great for YA patrons who love poetry because the prose are so efficient and rhythmic.

Awards:

• ·         ALA Best of the Best Books for Young Adults
• ·         ALA Quick Pick for Reluctant Young Adult Readers
• ·         ALA Best Book for Young Adults
• ·         Parents’ Choice Gold Award

Useful Links: 

Visit Francesca Lia Block's Official Website for the author's biography, contact information, and information on all of her works.

Visit Francesca Lia Block's Page on HarperCollins.

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