Burn Baby Burn

Burn Baby Burn

Bibliography

Medina, Meg. 2016. BURN BABY BURN. Somerville, MA: Candlewick Press. ISBN 9780763674670

Plot Summary

Nora Lopez is a young teenager on the cusp of graduating high school, during a time of strife in late 1970s New York. Arson, a blackout, and a serial killer become part of the background of her life as she deals with her uncontrollable brother, her close to being laid off mother, her teachers pushing her to apply to schools, and a job where her new cute coworker tries to break through her walls. Nora must learn how to face her fears in the face of adversity and come to realize how she isn't alone in what she faces.

Critical Analysis

Meg Medina's Burn Baby Burn takes place during a turbulent period in the history of the state of New York. Son of Sam is on a killing spree, people are setting buildings ablaze, and the critical hit eventually knocks out the power throughout multiple cities. In all of this mess, Medina focuses on the story of one girl who must deal with it all and then some. 

The character of Nora is almost like every other girl in a young adult novel: figuring out her future after high school, crush on cute coworker, strains with family members. But Medina makes Nora Lopez unique in many ways. Nora has an infectious sense of humor and a strong will. She does her best to help her family, even when they push back. She has moments of bravery, like when she stands up to her brother and turns him in or when she confronts her father over his lack of care. Nora's sense of self and courage make her a standout in this novel, which also features some shining supporting characters, such as Pablo, Sal and Kathleen and her family. People that have heart and help Nora to see how she doesn't have to face her problems alone, which is a prominent theme in the novel. 

Medina's use of this particular history in New York makes this book one that keeps you on the edge of your seat and eager to read more. Burn Baby Burn is a novel for those that love strong heroines and want more in life than simplicity.

Review Excerpts

Horn Book Guide Starred: "In this vividly evoked coming-of-age story set in 1977 NYC during the oppressive heat wave, seventeen-year-old Nora Lspez faces an insecure future after graduation. The very real fear of an at-large serial killer is magnified by violence at home, and Nora's mother barely scrapes by. Nora is an empathetic character; Medina depicts her troubled family and their diverse Queens neighborhood with realistic, everyday detail."

Voice of Youth Advocates: " A devastatingly intense story, this work is a must-have for all collections, especially where Ruta Sepetys's books are popular."

Publishers Weekly: "Fortunately, the other elements in this coming-of-age story are elegantly and eloquently explored: the difficulties of finding a place to make out with a serial killer around, the new opportunities opening up for women, and Nora’s growing ability to envision the life she wants."

Connections

More by Meg Medina: The Girl Who Could Silence the World

                                     Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass

                                    Evelyn del Rey is Moving Away

If You Liked Burn Baby Burn: Blackout by John Rocco

                                                 The Big Black by Rodman Philbrick

                                                 When I Was the Greatest by Jason Reynolds

Activity: Analyze Nora and how she utilizes hope in the novel.