From Barbara Dee, the critically acclaimed author of Maybe He Just Likes You, comes a middle grade novel about a girl who makes the choice to speak out against a problematic historical hometown figure no matter the cost—perfect for readers of Dress Coded.
For as long as Freya can remember, she has loved living in her cozy hometown of Wellstone. Not only is the town itself named for local and historical hero Benjamin Wellstone but everything in it: schools, beaches, and stores. There’s even a giant statue of him to remind everyone of the good things he did.
But while doing research for a big school project, Freya discovers that Benjamin isn’t the big hero everyone has been taught to believe. He had some redeeming qualities, but he also held incredibly problematic views towards women, believing they shouldn’t have the right to vote—or even to exist outside of the home. Disappointed by her revelation, Freya wonders if she could figure out a way to not only show what the hometown hero was really like but replace his statue with one of an unsung hero: local suffragette Octavia Padgett.
Though Freya knows not everyone will agree with her, she is shocked when her efforts cause even bigger issues than she could have imagined. Even her own parents seem uneasy with Freya’s cause. With the help of her beloved Nan, friends new and old, and the coolest librarian she’s ever met, can Freya stand firm and tear down outdated views?
Praise for Tear This Down
“Dee (Unstuck) strategically and effectively weaves Freya’s nascent feminism into timely subplots involving craftivism, the unrecognized labor of women in history, and the importance of research in this smart and passionate read.” –Publishers Weekly, starred review
“The age-appropriate, relatable, and realistic lessons Freya learns are reinforced by supportive grown-ups in her life. Readers will readily root for the impassioned protagonist on her hard-fought feminist journey.” –Kirkus
“Dee provides a nuanced depiction of a young person gradually learning how to engage effectively to create change. Freya is a character that readers will root for.” –School Library Journal
“A solid read that could absolutely be a catalyst for nuanced conversations about how to consider tricky historic figures (Wellstone was a virulent sexist but also an important abolitionist), it will also give even the most historically informed reader something to think about, ending with the wise observation “as long as we walk together, I know in my bones that one day we will win.” –BCCB
“Wow did I love this book. Tear This Down is history and feminism and family dynamics and friendship and community sewn into a brave and brilliant story. It’s going to inspire a generation of changemakers. Bravo, Barbara Dee, queen of middle grade storytelling!” –Carrie Firestone, author of Dress-Coded and The First Rule of Climate Club
”Relevant and empowering, Tear This Down will have readers rooting for Freya as she upends gender stereotypes and champions the power and importance of historical truth. I loved Freya. I loved this book!” –Elly Swartz, author of Same Page
”A stirring and timely book about the power of kids to build community and move us all forward.” –Susan Hood, author of Lifeboat 5
”Tear This Down is a powerful and moving celebration of standing up for what you
believe in and a fantastic introduction to activism. A wonderful and engaging read!” –Lisa Moore Ramee, author of A Good Kind of Trouble and The Everybody Experiment
