Publishers Weekly
03/25/2024
Following her involvement in a tragedy at her former school that resulted in expulsion, high school junior Jordyn Jones is eager to start fresh. As she makes friends and crushes on Izaiah, her new school’s artistic soccer star, she and others are dogged by a podcast called Tomcat Tea. The anonymously run show shares school rumors—both fact and fiction—for the joy of “wreaking havoc with gossip.” After Jordyn is repeatedly targeted, she sets out to unmask the podcaster and take a stand against bullying—even as she endures escalating threats demanding that she publicize her own deep, dark secret. Intermittent flashbacks gradually reveal the events of Jordyn’s past. Jordyn’s struggles feel plausible and sometimes disturbing, and the often-serious subject matter is levied by engaging banter throughout. A heartfelt examination of issues surrounding bullying, complicity, social media, and redemption, this collaborative work by Woodfolk (The Beauty That Remains) and actor Underwood is teeming with suspense and ethical dilemmas that coalesce in a resolution that provokes further contemplation about the themes addressed. Jordyn is Black; supporting characters are queer and racially diverse. Ages 12–up. Agents: (for Woodfolk) Beth Phelan, Gallt & Zacker Literary; (for Underwood) Cait Hoyt, CAA and Katie Rhodes, Untitled Entertainment. (June)
From the Publisher
Praise for Louder Than Words:
* "This twisy, Gossip Girl-esque tale is full of surprises . . . a rich, layered story about reconciliation and accountability with oneself and others." — Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“A suspenseful, thrilling, read-in-one-sitting page-turner with real emotional heart and depth.” — Nicola Yoon, #1 bestselling author of The Sun Is Also a Star
“Mysterious, honest, and full of heart, Louder Than Words is a story filled with hope, and one that promises each of us is deserving of second chances despite our mistakes.” — Dhonielle Clayton, New York Times bestselling author
"A gift of a story, incredibly heartfelt and poignant from two powerhouse voices." Mason Deaver, bestselling author of I Wish You All the Best
School Library Journal
07/01/2024
Gr 9 Up—After being expelled from the exclusive private school she'd been attending, Jordyn Jones begins her junior year at a public high school in Washington, D.C. The difference is immediately obvious in the diversity of the students and the lax dress code. Jordyn feels she could fit in there, pursue her love of art, and make a clean start. But on day one, her past is already coming back to haunt her. A mysterious podcaster at the school releases a weekly gossip show, spilling juicy secrets that the targeted students would rather not have revealed. Jordyn's expulsion is the day's top story, but luckily, the podcaster doesn't seem to know any of the details, and she is able to make friends quickly. But trouble seems to find her even when she is trying to do the right thing. First her parents, and then even her new friends are quick to assume the worst. Jordyn never expected starting over to be easy, but wonders, if no one else is willing to give her a chance, how can she ever move beyond her past mistakes? The search for the mysterious podcaster, along with the gradual, but well-timed, reveal of Jordyn's expulsion keep the story moving in this character-driven novel. It features students of color as well as members of the LGBTQIA+ community. VERDICT An engaging story about self-esteem and choices that teen girls, especially, will appreciate.—Cary Frostick