Exposed

"This provocative first novel, told in free-verse poems, offers a nuanced view of the ramifications of a rape, as seen through the eyes of 16-year-old Liz, an avid photographer. Marcus captures Liz's divided allegiances between the accused — her brother, a college student with whom Liz has an ambivalent but loving relationship — and her best friend, Kate, the victim ('My brother is a track star./ My brother is a partier.... My brother/ is not/ a rapist'). The stages of grief are well developed, as Liz negotiates the social consequences of the alleged rape, the loss of Kate as a friend, and her guilt for leaving Kate alone after a fight at a sleepover. In one poem, 'Distraction,' Liz claims to accept the loss, but says, 'And except for a few times/ every few minutes,/ I hardly think about Kate/ at all.' Liz's relationships with her parents and peers offer poignant moments, such as when she lies to protect her mother from the rumors she hears at school. Marcus presents a thought-provoking portrait of rape and its irreparable impact on victim and community. Ages 14 — up. (Feb.)" Publishers Weekly (Copyright PWyxz LLC)

Sixteen-year-old Liz is Photogirl--sharp, focused, and confident in what she sees through her camera lens. Suddenly, as the aftershocks from a startling accusation rip through Liz's world, everything she thought she knew about photography, family, friendship, and herself shifts out of focus.

KIMBERLY MARCUS lives with her husband and two children near the beach in Massachusetts, not far from the ferry to Martha's Vineyard. She is a clinical social worker specializing in the treatment of childhood and adolescent trauma. Exposed is her first novel. You can visit her on the Web at KimberlyMarcus.com.