Becoming JiJi: A Feminist Literary Coming-of-Age Novel: 1 (Shingle Creek Sagas)

Jill Frisk 18-year-old daughter of a violent father and shattered mother has no plans no hope. A straight-A high school graduate her 1970s blue collar neighborhood discourages womens dreams.Although she reads advanced chemistry books as a hobby her father wont allow her to go to college. The prospect of an existence like her mothers holds Jill in the grip of depression.Joe Stern the new recreation director sees Jill differently. He hires her to run a preschool group and assists her in founding a teen council that uplifts the neighborhood. With his encouragement she rises above her depression and discovers she has a world-class singing voice.Empowered with the promise of a future she never dreamed possible Jill finds a safe home for her family and brings her mother back to life.Jill falls in love with Joe but shes too shy to tell him before he suddenly leaves town. Will new improved Jill have the guts to pursue him woo him help him overcome his secret past win his hand and become a successful musician?Becoming JiJi is an antidote to Americas current wave of dystopian fear confusion and hopelessness. Its a great story about ordinary blue-collar Americans changing themselves from defeated cynics to high achievers.The novel weaves resistance to racism classism domestic violence sexism and sexual harassment into a heart-warming story of empowerment.Youll love this story by an award-winning author filled with touching portrayals of ordinary people. The characters seem so real theyll feel like your good friends. JiJi will raise your spirits and inspire you.