TITLE:WHAT THINGS MEAN
AUTHOR:SOPHIA N.LEE
PAGE:133 PAGES
PUBLISHER: SCHOLASTIC
"Maybe, that's how it's meant to be. Maybe we all have to let go of things and people in order to keep our balance"
Olive is a 14-year-old girl who often feels out of place. Growing up in a single-parent household with her mother and estranged from her father, she struggles with questions about her identity, family, and where she truly belongs. Adding to her confusion are her experiences as the "different" girl—taller and more introspective than her peers—making her feel like she doesn’t quite fit in.
Each chapter begins with a word and its dictionary definition, which acts as a key to Olive's world. Through these words, Olive narrates moments of her life, from the mysteries of her absent father to her longing to connect with her extended family and her personal struggles with acceptance and self-worth.
The book captures Olive's journey of understanding, not just about what words mean, but also what family, belonging, and identity mean to her. By the end of the story, Olive discovers that life, like words, has layers of meaning—often deeper and more complex than what is on the surface.
What Things Mean by Sophia N. Lee is a charming and poignant collection of interconnected short stories revolving around the life of Olive, a young girl navigating the complexities of adolescence. This award-winning work, which won the Scholastic Asian Book Award in 2014, captures the heart with its emotional depth, relatable characters, and its exploration of identity and belonging.
The book’s central premise revolves around Olive’s desire to understand the meanings of words in a literal and metaphorical sense. Each chapter begins with a word and its dictionary definition, which serves as a springboard for a story about Olive’s experiences. This unique structure adds a layer of intrigue and keeps readers engaged.
What makes the book truly special is the authenticity of Olive’s voice. Sophia N. Lee writes with sensitivity and nuance, vividly portraying Olive’s struggles with growing up in a single-parent household, dealing with insecurities about her identity, and longing for a sense of connection with her father and extended family. These themes are handled with care and resonate with both young readers and adults alike.
The writing is lyrical yet straightforward, making it accessible while still packing an emotional punch. The blend of Filipino culture and universal themes of self-discovery and family relationships adds a rich layer of context, making the book a celebration of diversity and identity also the dictionary-style storytelling really adds charm to this book.
In essence, What Things Mean is a beautifully crafted story about understanding oneself and the world. It’s a touching read that reminds us of the importance of words and the stories they carry. This is a must-read for anyone who enjoys heartfelt coming-of-age tales with a unique twist.
