SILHOUETTE

The eighth anthology from Los Angeles–based WriteGirl features a diverse collection of poetry and prose written by mentors and participants and ranging from transcendent to trite. WriteGirl is an organization that serves at-risk girls and empowers them through writing and mentoring; proceeds of this book will fund programming. Some truly gifted participants have contributed powerful poems, but these hide among hackneyed advice (“Even when you don’t feel like writing, WRITE!”) and senseless organization—pieces are grouped into thematic chapters but often fit tenuously at best, and sometimes the chapter headings add a layer of meaning not found in the actual texts. Glosses make sure that any magic is lost in explanation rather than allowing the voices to speak for themselves, and the mix of teen and adult writers—and thus themes—is sometimes jarring. A final section with writing exercises makes this potentially useful in a school setting, where teens may find inspiration browsing and trying their own hands at writing. The cause is commendable; the collection less so. (extensive backmatter about the organization including supporters and mentor biographies, index) (Anthology. 12 & up)