55 pages • 1 hour read
Go Ask Alice
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
1960s
1971
YA
14-18 years
930L
Super Short Summary
Go Ask Alice by Beatrice Sparks, structured as a teenage girl's diary, chronicles two years of her struggle with family relationships, social acceptance, and drug use, including marijuana, LSD, and amphetamines, leading to a turbulent journey marked by emotional turmoil, drug dependency, rebellion, and self-discovery. The book contains depictions of drug use and dependency, sexual assault, graphic violence, and suicidal ideation.
Dark
Unnerving
Melancholic
Emotional
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
286,477 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Beatrice Sparks' Go Ask Alice elicits mixed reactions. Praised for its raw, diary-like portrayal of a teenager's descent into drug addiction, it resonates with readers for its impactful storytelling. However, critics question its authenticity and the ethical implications of presenting it as a true diary. Despite its contentious nature, the book remains an evocative, if controversial, read.
Who Should Read Go Ask Alice?
A reader who would enjoy Go Ask Alice by Beatrice Sparks is typically drawn to raw, introspective narratives on teenage struggles and self-discovery. Fans of The Perks of Being a Wallflower and Speak will appreciate this candid, diary-style exploration of addiction, identity, and the tumultuous journey through adolescence.
286,477 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Alice’s Parents
Alice’s Parents
They embody the idealistic nuclear family, with Alice’s mother as a stay-at-home parent and her father as a working parent, reinforcing traditional roles while supporting Alice through her struggles.
Tim and Alexandria
Tim and Alexandria
Alice's siblings, with whom she experiences typical sibling rivalry and bonds of affection, contributing to Alice's feelings of jealousy and protectiveness.
Gran and Gramps
Gran and Gramps
Alice’s grandparents, whose close and loving relationship with her highlights familial warmth and contributes to Alice’s character development.
Chris
Chris
Alice’s friend, whose relationship underscores the theme of connection and leads Alice into experimenting with drugs, influencing major decisions and experiences.
Joel
Joel
A supportive romantic interest for Alice, representing comfort and stability during difficult times, which helps her feel grounded amidst her challenges.
224
Novel • Fiction
1960s
1971
YA
14-18 years
930L
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