Whale Talk by Chris Crutcher. Greenwillow Books, 2001. This is a novel filled with so much tragedy that a reader might wonder if it is realistic. It might be possible for readers to dismiss this book as unrealistic. Even though it might be easier to close this book and say, “Chris Crutcher is crazy. Stuff like this doesn’t really happen,” readers must keep reading. In this novel, Crutcher tackles issues of discrimination, bullying, racism and abuse. We must remind ourselves that not everyone is in the same place in life that we are. We must remember that these ugly things exist and there are people who deal with them everyday. We need to think about what we can to do make life better for those who are suffering. This book is a great reminder to those of us blessed enough to not suffer and a source of comfort for those who do. Chris Crutcher has an amazing way of creating characters who can serve as examples us all.
This book is great for those who can handle truth. I will not be able to recommend it to all readers though. It isn’t for younger readers, and it isn’t for readers who are easily offended by the realistic actions and language of abuse and racism.
What is it about? A swim team filled with misfits who can’t swim led by a captain determined that every member of his team will earn a coveted letter jacket.
Posted by Angela 
