SuitabookThe Actual Real Reality of Jennifer James
Gillian Shields
- Reading
- If the reality-show competition feels familiar, compare how the contestants’ public image and private perspective may differ. You could also talk about what makes Jennifer want the scholarship.
- Themes
- Reality television and public judgement: Jennifer competes on a reality television programme filmed at her school, with a scholarship as the prize and the public vote affecting her chances. The contest makes public approval part of Jennifer’s challenge, with the scholarship awarded through a public vote.
- Diary-style narration: The story is presented as Jennifer’s diary as she takes part in the school reality show and tries to understand herself. The diary framing presents events from Jennifer’s perspective as she takes part in the competition and tries to understand herself.
- Worth knowing
- Expect interpersonal friction involving a rival and Jennifer’s mother, as well as a love interest and the prospect of a first snog. The story also centres on popularity and public judgement.