(2014, August/September). Justine Magazine, pp. 1-100.
Genera: Fashion,
Advice, Celebrities, Reviews
Reading level/
interest age: 14+
Plot summary:
This issue of Justine
magazine contains a two page review of the new book Homeroom Diaries, which is sure to be a smash hit with
back-to-school season right around the corner. Several articles detail the
newest, must-have fashions for the school year. This August issue also has
do-it-yourself ideas on jazzing up a room and adding some cool prints to make
leggings pop. Take a quiz on cheating and hear fellow teens speak about their
misadventures.
Justine prides
itself on building positive self-esteem in teens. Ads are geared toward more
realistic portrayals of teen girls. The magazine contains none of the typical
glossy pages found in other teenage magazines such as beauty product items or
expensive clothing. Photo shoots are modest and contain no Photoshop touchups.
Readers will find no extensive articles on accessories or pushes to buy brand
name items. Justine’s August issue
also contains an interview with two Disney Channel starlets who serve as
fantastic role models for this age group. Most of the magazine is also
dedicated to book reviews and details the releases of upcoming movies teens may
take interest in. Lastly, Justine
contains summaries of TV episodes teens watch so that they can keep track of
their favorite shows.
Reader’s annotation:
Quit wasting your money on Seventeen! Justine has
affordable styles, reviews of upcoming movies, and models you may actually
know.
Information about the
author:
“Jana Kerr Pettey (a self-prescribed teenager at heart) has
worked with thousands of teen girls over the past 20 years in various
leadership and mentoring programs. Her proudest work achievement has been the
founding of Justine magazine, the national girl teen magazine, whose mission is
to inspire and motivate teens to be their best selves. Prior to Justine, she
worked with her sister’s company—Pat Kerr, Inc.—in every capacity possible
marketing beautiful antique lace wedding gowns to the world. Although she has
not landed in her ideal job (wanting to be a librarian in the 5th grade and
reading all day long), she is connected to the book world through Justine’s
involvement in the YA genre” (PublishersLaunch.com, 2014).
Curriculum ties: N/A
Booktalking ideas:
1.
What book are you most interested in reading
based on the magazine’s reviews?
2.
How much can you relate to Justine versus Seventeen?
Critical evaluation:
Justine magazine
is a breath of fresh air in the age of consumerism. Models in the articles are
relatable and also the same age as the readers. Many are just local high school
students who have been recruited for a short photo shoot. Also, hair styles and
make-up are not over-the-top and expensive accessories are non-existent. Justine prides itself in being relatable
to average teenage girls and the magazine keeps its promise. Styles are
affordable and easy to assemble, beauty techniques are doable, and the articles
tell stories that are down-to-earth. Justine
could also appeal to librarians because of the sheer amount of book reviews and
movie critiques it contains. Anyone who may be interested in learning about the
newest releases in the young adult genre can leaf through the pages for ideas. This
magazine is great for hooking readers interested in relatable content as Justine is not flashy like most other
teen magazines. Interviews often contain good role models and the
do-it-yourself ideas are fun. This magazine is a great addition to any
collection.
Challenge issues: N/A
Why included:
Justine magazine
prides itself on having more realistic depictions of teenage girls which can
help those struggling with body image issues and can boost self-esteem. The
styles are achievable and affordable which can appeal to those on a budget.
Reference:
PublishersLaunch.com. (2014). Jana Kerr Pettey. Retrieved August 29, 2014 from
http://www.publisherslaunch.com/speakers/jana-pettey/
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