Love, Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli

Love, Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli 

Reviewed by Suzanne Dlugolonski, YA Librarian 

The original Stargirl was published in 2000 to rave reviews, and the sequel published this past August was well worth the wait.  Told from the point of view of Susan Stargirl Caraway, the reader learns what happened after the infamous Bunny Hop at the Mica High Octillion Ball.  Stargirl has moved to Pennsylvania where she has met an eclectic group of people.  However, she has not forgotten Leo Borlock and sets out to write him the longest letter ever.

The letter follows Stargirl’s adventures for a full year.  As she settles into her new community, we see that Stargirl is just as charismatic as ever.  Her best friend is Dootsie, a very precocious 5-year-old, who proudly declares that she’s a “human bean!”  Together they befriend Betty Lou, a divorced agoraphobic, and Alvina, an 11-year-old tomboy who works at the donut shop.  Along the way, Stargirl and Dootsie touch many lives while learning about themselves.

Questions are raised with each letter to Leo.  Will tough Perry Dellophane win Stargirl’s heart?  Will Stargirl resolve her feelings for Leo?  Will the Winter Solstice party be a success?  Most importantly: Will Stargirl mail the letter?

Love, Stargirl debuted at #2 on the New York Times Children’s Best Sellers List.  The novel started a little slow, but truly picked up momentum midway.  Stargirl Caraway is a refreshing character; as she tells Perry, “I am not a typical girl.”  While I would be pleased if Spinelli were to publish a third Stargirl installment, I was wholly satisfied with the conclusion of Love, Stargirl.  Readers of all ages will delight in this inspirational heroine.

The Lewiston Public Library owns one copy of Love, Stargirl.  Additional copies can be requested through NIOGA.  For those who enjoy Audio Books, the original Stargirl is read by the late John Ritter, who did a phenomenal job.  The CD and cassettes are also available through NIOGA.   To learn more about Jerry Spinelli, visit his website.