Hazel's Theory of Evolution
Hazel's Theory of Evolution is a young adult novel by Lisa Jenn Bigelow. In 2019 HarperCollins published the book, which received the Lambda Literary Award in 2020.
Author | Lisa Jenn Bigelow |
---|---|
Language | English |
Genre | Young adult novel |
Publisher | HarperCollins |
Publication date | 2019 |
Awards | Lambda Literary Award |
ISBN | 978-0-0627-9117-7 |
The novel tells the story of Hazel, a thirteen-year-old girl who feels left behind by her best friend, Becca. One of her mothers is also pregnant again, but Hazel is not confident about having a new sibling, as her mother has suffered two miscarriages.
Reception
Kirkus Reviews praised the diversity present in the book's cast. They also said that "[h]er first-person narration is insightful" and the main character is "highly likable."[1] Publishers Weekly also praised the varied cast in Bigelow's book, as well as her "relatable first-person narrative", which the author uses to address universal conflicts.[2]
Writing for the School Library Journal, Lisa Gieskes recommended the book, saying that "readers will find [Hazel's] sensitive, reflective nature heartening."[3] Carolyn Phelan, for Booklist, called it "[a] heartfelt novel of family, friends, and change." Phelan also noted the author's skill at building up towards the climax, as well as her portrayal of empathetic characters.[4]
Hazel's Theory of Evolution won the 2020 Lambda Literary Award in the "Children's/Middle Grade" category.[5]
References
- "Hazel's Theory of Evolution". Kirkus Reviews. Austin. 87 (16). 15 August 2019.
- "Hazel's Theory of Evolution". Publishers Weekly. Retrieved 13 October 2020.
- Gieskes, Lisa (October 2019). "Middle Grade". School Library Journal. New York. 65 (9): 76.
- Phelan, Carolyn (1 October 2019). "Hazel's Theory of Evolution". The Booklist. Chicago. 116 (3): 80.
- Aviles, Gwen (1 June 2020). "Lambda Literary announces 25 winning books for annual Lammy Awards". NBC News. Retrieved 13 October 2020.