Breakfast on Mars and 37 Other Delectable Essays: Your Favorite Authors Take A Stab at the Dreaded Essay Assignment

Great idea. But I'm spoiled by the essays of [a:Michael Perry|2772479|Michael Perry|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1231631186p2/2772479.jpg] and the classics. I assume these were meant to be aspirational, but I think maybe they underestimated kids. A few towards the end were better (for me at least) but mostly they did seem as if written by a smart kid.

I did like the writing style of [a:Joshua Mohr|2063615|Joshua Mohr|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1276749801p2/2063615.jpg]'s essay, though the subject has been done. I guess one of my problems is that all these subjects have been addressed in fiction many times. So, that's another reason (besides mentor text) that the target audience would get more out of it, as they're not show more as experienced a reader as I.

Btw, it does have an essay on book banning. Apparently it was a bad problem a decade ago, too.

So, yes, *I* give it two stars, but I would not be surprised if others give it four or even five. show less

Adult Reader Reaction: Teens will recognize this all-star collection of authors they love to read. How much of the book they read is a big question for me. Although billed as YA nonfiction, the Special Note to teachers suggests that this is more for classroom use. Reading the introduction (which is indirect voice) and the essays themselves confirm that. It is a book you would use to illustrate a specific type of writing, but not one you're likely to see a teens read of their own choice.

Pros: Popular authors and a variety of essay styles introduce readers to the art of writing in its many forms.

To read our full review, go to The Reading Tub®.