Book Being Reviewed:
Koja, K. (2003). Buddha boy. New York, NY: Penguin Group.

Reviewer:
Stephanie Gotay

Genre:
Fiction-Young Adult (12-18 years old)

Subject Headings:
Anger, High school, Multicultural/cross-cultural issues, Relationships, Spiritual practice, Violence/assault

Review:
Kathe Koja, the author of Buddha Boy, addresses several important topics in this concise but value-challenging novel. The main character of this story is Justin, a somewhat ordinary high school student, who is comfortable in his middle of the road existence and until he meets the new kid, Jinsen. Other students quickly identify Jinsen as weird and dub him "Buddha Boy" due to his unique appearance and somewhat unexpected behaviors. So, befriending Jinsen openly is a risk that could move Justin from an acceptable status to one of outcast. Through circumstances beyond his control, Justin discovers he and Jinsen have a common interest in art. Justin finds himself forced to make a decision about breaking the status quo and befriending Jinsen. With some reservations, Justin pursues this friendship. What follows in a self-awakening and growing awareness as Justin begins to learn not only about his new friend but also about himself and the world around him.

Psychological issues Justin experiences include struggles with decision making as he faces bullying, consideration of the parameters of friendship and loyalty, and effective options to utilize in the management of anger and aggression. A growing awareness of cultural and religious diversity and an appreciation for these differences are seen as the friendship develops. Although this book could be used to address a variety of issues common with preteen and teenage clients, the theme centers most directly on bullying, anger management, defining self as an individual, and appreciation of religious and cultural differences.