No Character Limit: Truth and Fiction from WriteGirl

Gr 7 Up—This collection of short stories, poems, and essays is the product of a writing and mentoring organization in Los Angeles. Founded in 2001, WriteGirl provides a supportive channel for teen girls to express themselves through creative writing. Professional writers, who contribute to the anthology as well, act as mentors to help the girls find their voices and to improve their communication skills. The selections cover a variety of topics, and most contributions include a brief introduction by the authors about the source of their inspiration. Some subjects are joyful, such as those about favorite childhood memories, waffles, or New Orleans jazz. Other topics-such as broken romances, fading friendships, or repeatedly changing schools-reflect the writers' pain and determination to get through tough times. The creative process is clearly cathartic for the teens and mentors, acting both as an outlet and as a tool to help them make better sense of the world around them. Adolescents reading this anthology will recognize themselves in the words. WriteGirl authors also offer practical advice to fellow writers, such as "Do not delete any work. You will regret the decision later." Aspiring wordsmiths can use the works as models for their own writing or try their turn at the various exercises in the book. Readers who enjoy this collection will want to discover previously published WriteGirl anthologies.—Sherry J. Mills, Hazelwood East High School, St. Louis, MO