REVIEWS+

Plastic

by Sarah N. Harvey
120p. 978-1-55469-253-8.
COPY ISBN
Gr 8 Up—Any book that opens with 40 different terms for breasts is going to have a certain appeal for preteen and teen boys. Jack is into female anatomy, even though he hasn't had any real experience with a naked woman. When his best friend decides to have plastic surgery to enhance her breasts for her 16th birthday, he is horrified. In his quest to stop her, he finds there are some unscrupulous physicians who are mutilating young people with a complete disregard for anything but the paycheck. Jack visits three local plastic surgeons for bogus consultations and finds one who instantly agrees that his perfectly normal nose is deformed. Jack and his mom decide to peacefully protest doing plastic surgery on teenagers at the surgeon's office, and the news picks up the story. This novel is characteristically fast paced and of high interest. Information about both the pros and the cons of plastic surgery is included without detracting from the plot. Plastic does a good job of exploring an important societal issue while telling a timely tale.—Emily Chornomaz, West Orange Public Library, NJ
High schooler Jack's concern about his friend Leah's plan to have plastic surgery leads to the uncovering of unscrupulous medical practices. He organizes protest marches that unfortunately turn violent with his brother's involvement. This short, quick read has a plausible conclusion and a strong but not beat-you-over-the-head-with-it message.
Reviewed by Emily Chornomaz , Jul 01, 2010

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