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49 pages 1 hour read

Moxie

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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Jennifer Mathieu

Moxie

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

330

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Texas • Present Day

Publication Year

2017

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

840L

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Super Short Summary

In Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu, junior Vivian Carter, frustrated by the sexist behavior at her East Texas high school, starts an anonymous zine inspired by the Riot Grrrl manifesto to challenge harassment and empower her female classmates. As the movement grows, Vivian navigates complex dynamics with her mother, friends, and her first boyfriend, mobilizing her peers to stand up against systemic sexism. The book includes incidents of sexual assault.

Inspirational

Hopeful

Challenging

Playful

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.4

35,733 ratings

82%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu is lauded for its empowering feminist message and engaging storytelling. Reviewers praise its relatable characters and the protagonist's growth. However, some critics feel the plot is predictable and the dialogue occasionally didactic. Overall, it's celebrated for inspiring teens to stand up against sexism.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Moxie?

Readers who enjoyed The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas or Dumplin' by Julie Murphy will likely appreciate Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu. This book appeals to teens interested in feminist activism, high school dynamics, and a protagonist’s journey of empowerment through zine culture and grassroots organizing.

4.4

35,733 ratings

82%

Loved it

14%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Vivian Carter

The 16-year-old protagonist navigating high school challenges and personal growth, particularly in terms of independence and activism rooted in her developing awareness of social justice issues.

Vivian’s supportive mother, who once embraced a punk lifestyle and now balances her career in healthcare with raising Vivian, instilling values of independence and open communication in her daughter.

A fellow junior and friend to Vivian, who inspires with her strong sense of social justice and active engagement in feminism, bringing new energy to the movement at their school.

Vivian’s longtime best friend, known for her petite stature and initial hesitance to challenge the norms, who gradually finds her voice and confidence to stand up against injustice.

Vivian’s love interest, a thoughtful and supportive male ally from a progressive background, offering an outsider’s perspective to the cultural dynamics at East Rockport High.

The high school principal, focused on preserving the school’s football-centric culture, often dismissing issues raised by students, revealing his loyalty to the status quo.

The star football player and son of the principal, known for his sense of entitlement and involvement in bullying and harassment without facing repercussions.

A well-groomed and popular junior, head cheerleader known for her confidence and attractiveness, who eventually becomes involved with advocating for change within the school's sexist culture.

Book Details
Pages

330

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Texas • Present Day

Publication Year

2017

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

Lexile Level

840L

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