Taking Sides : Book Review

"Taking Sides" by Gary Soto is a captivating and thought-provoking book that delves into the intricate themes of loyalty, friendship, and morality. The story takes place in a diverse neighborhood in Fresno, California, and follows the journey of Lincoln Mendoza as he navigates the challenges of middle school, family dynamics, and the pressure to choose between two rival gangs.

At its core, the book explores the concept of loyalty and the difficult decisions individuals face when torn between two contrasting paths. Through the eyes of Lincoln, Soto skillfully presents the internal conflict and moral dilemma that arise when one is compelled to take sides. The author effectively captures the emotions and conflicts that young people experience, making the narrative relatable and compelling.

Soto's writing style is vivid and descriptive, immersing readers in the lively world of Lincoln's neighborhood and the intricate relationships he forms. The author seamlessly incorporates elements of humor, adding a refreshing and lighthearted tone to counterbalance the weighty themes explored. The dialogues are authentic and reflective of the characters' personalities, enabling readers to forge deeper connections with them.

One of the remarkable aspects of "Taking Sides" is Soto's exploration of friendship. By depicting the camaraderie between Lincoln and his classmates, the author emphasizes the significance of standing up for what is right and supporting one another. The dynamics between the characters are nuanced, showcasing the complexities of loyalty and the power of genuine connections.

In conclusion, "Taking Sides" is a thought-provoking and exceptionally crafted novel that delves into the themes of loyalty, friendship, and the obstacles of growing up. Soto's compelling writing style and authentic portrayal of characters make this book a must-read for young adult readers and anyone interested in exploring the intricacies of moral choices.

What are readers saying?

"Taking Sides" by Gary Soto elicits mixed reactions from its readers. The book follows Lincoln Mendoza, a young boy who is torn between his Hispanic heritage and his desire to fit in with his predominantly white peers in a new school. Some reviewers appreciate Soto's portrayal of Lincoln's struggle, praising the author for capturing the complexities of his identity crisis and the racial tensions he faces. These readers find the book thought-provoking and commend Soto for his effective character development, particularly in Lincoln's journey of self-discovery.

However, there are readers who express disappointment with "Taking Sides." They feel that the novel fails to delve into the depth of the themes it explores, leaving them unsatisfied. Some critique Soto's writing style as simplistic, suggesting that it hampers the potential impact of the story. These readers believe that the book missed opportunities to address larger issues surrounding race, identity, and societal expectations.

Moreover, a few reviewers mention the pacing of the book as a drawback. They find it slow-moving and struggle to fully engage with the story as a result. On the other hand, some praise Soto's concise writing style, stating that it effectively conveys the emotions and struggles of the characters without unnecessary embellishment.

In summary, opinions on "Taking Sides" by Gary Soto are divided. While some readers appreciate the novel's exploration of identity and the challenges faced by young individuals from different backgrounds, others feel that it falls short of fully realizing its potential. Regardless of varying opinions, Soto's work has sparked important conversations about race, culture, and belonging among its readers.