Tradition

March 12, 2018
Kiely’s (American Boys) newest alternates perspectives between jock Jamie “Bax” Baxter, a new student at Fullbrook Academy who is escaping tragedy and determined to start over, and feminist activist Jules, who is fed up with Fullbrook’s social politics and its traditions based on hierarchy and privilege. The novel focuses on a nonconsensual encounter between Jules and her ex, Ethan, after both have been drinking at a party. Jules is left wondering whether what happened to her was sexual assault. Kiely explores the reactions to Jules’s claim from multiple angles; everyone has a different opinion about what happened. Gillian, who is Ethan’s current girlfriend and Jules’s ex-best friend, witnessed the incident and believes that Jules lured Ethan into cheating. Other people also blame Jules and label her a slut, seeing Ethan and Gillian as victims, and there are further reprisals after Jules comes forward. In his portrayal of Jamie, Kiely writes against jock stereotypes, presenting him as sensitive, understanding, and courageous—a good guy for all women (and men) to have in their corner. A novel to discuss, this takes up timely issues about privilege, problematic school “traditions,” and how institutions can in some cases protect their athletes and discourage women from reporting assault. Ages 14–up. Agency: Rob Weisbach Creative Management.