Babysitter's Club 16; Jessi's Secret Language by Ann M Martin

Plot Summary: Babysitter's Club 16; Jessi's Secret Language by Ann M Martin is about Jessi, whp teaches the whole neighborhoods how to speak in sign language to help Matt. Jessi, a beautiful ballerina is feeling left out because she is the only African American in her class. She joins the Baby-Sitter Club to feel a sense of purpose and there, she gets a new client, Matt, who is deaf. She learns sigh language to communicate with Matt. She also helps anyone learn the language too. Matt is feeling less of an outcast because many people are learning to sign. Jessi gets the idea to perform ballet to a group of Matt’s friends. She invites a translator to translate the storyline of the ballet as she dances. The group appreciates the Art of the ballet in their own special way.

Impression about the book:

The story is touching because it deals with racism. Instead of becoming angry, Jessi empowers herself and others by teaching them tolerance and at the same time acceptance.

Reviews / Reviews Excerpts:

This book for young adults connects well by teaching the young adult a lesson. The topics are something the young adult might be experiencing and therefore connect with the characters from the book. The book is appealing to young adults and teaches them empathy.

Suggestions for library use:

This series is good for children 9-12 years of age. This book can help those feeling outcast by reading about Jessi’s experience. This lower level reader can help students who are acquiring the English language or reading difficulties. This book is an easy reads and can promote fluency.