92 pages • 3 hours read
Dashka SlaterThe 57 Bus: A True Story of Two Teenagers and the Crime that Changed Their Lives (2017)
Nonfiction | Book | YA | Published in 2017A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater recounts a true story of an incident on November 4, 2013, when two high school students, Richard and Sasha, were riding the same bus in Oakland, California. Richard, a troubled but well-meaning teen, impulsively set fire to Sasha’s skirt, causing severe burns. Sasha, who is agender, faced a long recovery, while Richard was tried in the adult criminal justice system. The narrative examines the repercussions for both teens, delving into themes of justice, identity, and societal issues. Sensitive topics covered in the book include violence, LGBTQ+ discrimination, and the criminal justice system.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Dashka Slater’s The 57 Bus earns high praise for its empathetic and balanced portrayal of a real-life incident involving gender identity and social justice. Reviewers commend its journalistic rigor and narrative style, though some critique its heavy reliance on multiple perspectives might confuse readers. Overall, it's hailed for sparking crucial conversations on tolerance and complexity.
Who Should Read The 57 Bus?
Readers who would enjoy The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater are likely interested in social justice, LGBTQ+ issues, and true crime narratives. Fans of Angie Thomas' The Hate U Give or Susan Kuklin's Beyond Magenta will appreciate the compelling blend of personal stories and broader societal themes explored in this book.