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Fighting Words

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Fighting Words

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Tennessee • Contemporary

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

HL540L

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Super Short Summary

In Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, sisters Della and Suki escape an abusive and neglectful past and lean on each other to navigate lingering trauma. As they settle into a new foster home, Della learns about Suki's experiences with abuse. Following Suki's suicide attempt, Della deconstructs the stigma of abuse and discovers the true power of sisterhood. This book contains graphic depictions of child sexual abuse, neglect, drug addiction, suicidal ideation, and self-harm.

Emotional

Challenging

Hopeful

Inspirational

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.7

13,143 ratings

95%

Loved it

4%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Kimberly Brubaker Bradley's Fighting Words excels in portraying the resilience of two sisters overcoming trauma with courageous storytelling and humor. Critics praise its honest, sensitive handling of abuse and foster care. Some reviewers note the heavy topics might be intense for younger readers, but its uplifting message prevails, making it a powerful, essential read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Fighting Words?

A reader who would enjoy Fighting Words by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is typically aged 10-14, appreciates emotionally resonant stories addressing resilience and trauma, and may have enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio and The War That Saved My Life by the same author.

4.7

13,143 ratings

95%

Loved it

4%

Mixed feelings

1%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

272

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Tennessee • Contemporary

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

HL540L

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