Hazel's Theory of Evolution
 First edition cover | |
| Author | Lisa Jenn Bigelow |
|---|---|
| Language | English |
| Genre | Young adult novel |
| Publisher | HarperCollins |
Publication date | 2019 |
| Awards | Lambda Literary Award |
| ISBN | 978-0-0627-9117-7 |
Hazel's Theory of Evolution is a young adult novel by Lisa Jenn Bigelow. In 2019 HarperCollins published the book, which received the Lambda Literary Award in 2020.
The novel tells the story of Hazel, a thirteen-year-old girl who feels left behind by her best friend, Becca. One of her mothers is also pregnant again, but Hazel is not confident about having a new sibling, as her mother has suffered two miscarriages.
Reception[edit]
Kirkus Reviews praised the diversity present in the book's cast. They also said that "[h]er first-person narration is insightful" and the main character is "highly likable."[1] Publishers Weekly also praised the varied cast in Bigelow's book, as well as her "relatable first-person narrative", which the author uses to address universal conflicts.[2]
Writing for the School Library Journal, Lisa Gieskes recommended the book, saying that "readers will find [Hazel's] sensitive, reflective nature heartening."[3] Carolyn Phelan, for Booklist, called it "[a] heartfelt novel of family, friends, and change." Phelan also noted the author's skill at building up towards the climax, as well as her portrayal of empathetic characters.[4]
Hazel's Theory of Evolution won the 2020 Lambda Literary Award in the "Children's/Middle Grade" category.[5]
References[edit]
- ^ "Hazel's Theory of Evolution". Kirkus Reviews. 87 (16). Austin. 15 August 2019.
- ^ "Hazel's Theory of Evolution". Publishers Weekly. Retrieved 13 October 2020.
- ^ Gieskes, Lisa (October 2019). "Middle Grade". School Library Journal. 65 (9). New York: 76.
- ^ Phelan, Carolyn (1 October 2019). "Hazel's Theory of Evolution". The Booklist. 116 (3). Chicago: 80.
- ^ Aviles, Gwen (1 June 2020). "Lambda Literary announces 25 winning books for annual Lammy Awards". NBC News. Retrieved 13 October 2020.