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The Hate U Give,
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Rachel Thomas
Yes; I'm recommending it to my 7th and 8th grade students. While there is profanity, by middle school students know that language depends on audience, and this book makes that clear as the narrator's father has a "swear jar" and owes $1 whenever he swears and he holds his kids accountable for their language, as well. The language is representative of the kids in this book and their communication-- without it the story would have been inauthentic. The talk around sex is consent based and is a great example of how communication in a romantic relationship, at any age, should be.
Rio
There's some light cursing and some non-graphic sexual content that revolves around consent and responsibility. It's PG-13 at most. Nothing worse than what teens say and think, and therefore relatable.
Adrian
No. It is not appropriate for 7th and 8th graders. There is just too much profanity. Recommending this book is akin to endorsing that form of communication. "They hear it all the time" is not a good excuse. The story could have been just as compelling without it.
Susan D'Entremont
The language and sex are very minor. I see that others have said there is an f*ck on every page, but I am quite prudish, and it didn't stick out to me. Other aspects of the book might be more disturbing, especially the gang warfare. There aren't long, graphic passages, but there are definitely descriptions of blood and gun violence. I think it is a perfect book for both parents and kids to read and discuss.
Leah Rachel von Essen
I don't think that language should disqualify appropriateness. If you feel they are mature enough not to just shout out every curse word they read, they'll be fine. The somber themes are so important. I agree with others that the language is part of the story, as is the AAVE used.
Leigh Statham
There is quite a lot of language (F-bombs almost every other page) and some sexual content as well as violence. The writing is masterful and the language and content add to the story. The overall message is very important for all ages to read, but I think it would depend on the 7th and 8th graders.
Sharon
As a middle school librarian, I would not put this on my shelves. There is far too much foul language that goes beyond the normal YA read. The constant F bombs (and even Mother F bomb) make this inappropriate for 6th and 7th graders. Yes, they hear this kind of language on the streets but when youngsters read it in print, it makes the statement that this kind of language is condoned and acceptable for normal conversation. I agree that it is an awesome story that needs to be told, but for middle schoolers I would lean toward Jason Reynold's "All American Boys" instead of this book. Save this one for high school.
Terri Hildebrand
There's cursing on nearly very other page. I really thought this was a great book and would love to recommend but would warn potential readers about fbomb usage. Not all middle schoolers talk this way
Lindsay Daniels
Language but overall good message. Every other page is a bit dramatic but there is definitely a lot.
Marquell Hunter
yes, there is some language but it's appropriate.
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