Breakout

A journey of self-discovery through art and comedy

Paul Fleischman author

Format:Hardback

Publisher:Open Court Publishing Co ,U.S.

Published:31st Jul '03

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Breakout cover

Del's journey in Breakout reveals her transformation from a troubled past to a successful playwright, exploring themes of identity and connection.

In Breakout, we meet Del, a young woman who has spent 17 years navigating the complexities of life in Los Angeles, bouncing between foster homes. With a sharp wit and a talent for mimicry, Del has grown weary of her identity and the city that has shaped her. In a bold move, she fakes her own death to escape her past, but her plans take an unexpected turn when she finds herself stuck in a seemingly endless traffic jam. This moment serves as a pivotal point in her life, leading to a profound transformation.

Fast-forward eight years, and Del is now a playwright, preparing for the opening night of her one-woman show titled Breakout, which humorously explores the absurdities of Los Angeles traffic culture. While the audience laughs at her comedic take on workaholics and road rage, they remain unaware that the performance is deeply personal. It serves as a reflection of Del's struggles with her identity, her longing for connection, and the unresolved issues surrounding her mother.

As the narrative shifts between Del's past and present, Breakout offers readers an intimate look into her psyche. The story beautifully illustrates how art can transform pain into humor, solitude into community, and ultimately lead to acceptance. Through Del's journey, we witness the healing power of creativity and the importance of confronting one's own truths.

  • Commended for National Book Awards (Young People's Lit.) 2003
  • Short-listed for Young Reader's Choice Award (Senior/Grades 10-12) 2006
  • Short-listed for Pennsylvania Young Reader's Choice Award (Young Adult) 2006

ISBN: 9780812626964

Dimensions: unknown

Weight: 269g

160 pages