I chose Eleanor and Park because I loved the unique story and how the characters who told that story are completely different than what is normally portrayed in literature (especially for this age group). This story is told understanding that readers at this level not only understand, but relate to the simple graphic nature of life already– examples being the language used, the intensity of emotion, and the issues the characters face. I loved how both characters are so odd and have unique, tangible hobbies that are considered weird. I think the portrayal of the gender roles in this book is amazing, too. There isn’t one party taking advantage of the other, nor is there a constant need for weakness. Instead, these characters are remarkably human, and as such I am completely grateful. I wish I had something like this when I was younger at my fingertips, so I was interested in investigating why this story has been challenged as well as what following it has.