Finding Yvonne
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Literature |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Founder | Brandy Colbert |
| Products | Young adult novel |
Finding Yvonne is a young adult novel published in 2018 by Brandy Colbert. The narrative focuses on a privileged adolescent as she contemplates her future career, family dynamics, and romantic involvements.
Plot
The novel Finding Yvonne tells the story of Yvonne, a high school senior from Los Angeles who resides with her single father, a renowned chef. Initially identifying herself as a violinist, Yvonne grapples with whether to pursue music professionally or consider alternative career options. The plot also delves into her complicated emotions regarding her mother, who left during Yvonne’s childhood, alongside her romantic decisions.
Reception
Francisca Goldsmith, writing for School Library Journal, critiqued Finding Yvonne as somewhat "underdeveloped" with "less-than-credible turns," while acknowledging the gradual unveiling of the father's depression and the sensitive exploration of racial identity within the African American community.
On the other hand, Publishers Weekly commended Colbert for crafting "another emotionally layered story," portraying Yvonne as a "steady and compelling" lead and praising the depth given to supporting characters.
Deborah Stevenson from The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books highlighted Colbert's authentic depiction of a young Black woman navigating intricate family relationships, describing Yvonne as "a compelling protagonist" relatable to those facing uncertain futures.
Booklist also published a review.
Awards and honors
Finding Yvonne was selected as a Junior Library Guild book. In 2018, it was recognized by the New York Public Library as one of the best teen books of the year, and its audiobook earned an Earphone Award from AudioFile. The novel was additionally chosen for CCBC Choices and the Amelia Bloomer Book List in 2019.