Publishers Weekly
Narrated by a high school sophomore, this novel explores the tenets of Buddhism via an unlikely friendship between two classmates. In a starred review, PW called it "a compelling introduction to Buddhism and a credible portrait of how true friendship brings out the best in people." Ages 12-up. (Nov.) Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.
School Library Journal
Gr 7-10-Kathe Koja's novel (Farrar, 2003) looks at bullying through the eyes of Justin, a high school sophomore who is intrigued by Jinsen, a new boy who shaves his head and begs for his lunch like a monk. But Justin has always been "in the middle," not too cool or too different, so he know it's best to avoid contact with this new kid who is already a target for pranks and jeers. When a class project throws the two boys together, their mutual interest in art leads to a quiet friendship. Despite increased harassment from a bullying crowd, Jinsen refuses to fight, seek revenge, or get school officials involved. The test comes when the peaceful boy's artwork is maliciously destroyed, and Justin confronts faculty and students who have looked the other way far too long. The cast of 18 well-cast actors is led by Spencer Murphy, who aptly conveys Justin's fears, ambivalence, and outrage. Sound quality is good with musical interludes to mark text breaks. Koja provides an accurate look at the internal and external conflicts of high school students, and her brief commentary adds valuable insights into what influenced her writing. Middle and high school libraries will find Buddha Boy a surefire springboard for discussions about bullying, peer pressure, and tolerance. It's thoughtful storyline and realistic characters will also appeal to public library patrons.-Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.
Kirkus Reviews
Koja (Straydog, 2002) gives the tried and true "oddball new student vs. the bullies" theme a well-oiled workout. Comfortably invisible within the crowd, Justin at first wants nothing to do with new transfer Michael, or "Jinsen," to use his "spiritual name." After all, his shaved head, oversized shirt, and habit of wandering about the lunchroom with a begging bowl quickly earn him the nickname "Buddha boy" from alpha male McManus and his circle of goons. As he watches Jinsen respond calmly to escalating harassment, though, Justin's reserve begins to break down-particularly after he discovers that Jinsen is a superb artist, and learns that he had once been an incorrigible sociopath who had turned his life around with a conversion to Buddhism after being orphaned. Fortunately for the tale's credibility, Jinsen's self-possession isn't superhuman, and after two prized art projects are vandalized, only Justin's well-timed intervention gives him the moment he needs to regain his hard-won balance. Justin also does the friend thing by blowing the whistle on McManus, and unlike so many similar situations in teen fiction, justice is thoroughly, satisfyingly served. Koja barely touches on Buddhist practices and principles, but she does show how loving one's enemies rather that hating them often makes them crazy, as well as securing the moral high ground. Jerry Spinelli she is not (or not yet), but fans of Crash (1996), Loser (2002), and the like will enjoy the familiar scenery. (Fiction. 12+)
From the Publisher
A compelling introduction to Buddhism and a credible portrait of how true friendship brings out the best in people. (Publishers Weekly, starred review)
A compelling tale of friendship and of finding one's own inner strength. (VOYA)
