For young readers wondering how people navigate complex public debates, this powerful verse novel explores a town divided by science, faith, and freedom.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is grappling with how people with different, deeply held beliefs can live in the same community. It is an excellent tool for exploring how public debate works and how historical events affect ordinary people. Told in verse through the eyes of multiple residents, "Ringside, 1925" chronicles the famous Scopes "Monkey" Trial, where a teacher was arrested for teaching evolution. The story explores themes of justice, intellectual freedom, and how friendships are tested when a town becomes the center of a national controversy. For ages 11-14, this book provides a personal, accessible entry point to a complex piece of American history, modeling how to consider different perspectives with empathy.
Includes brief, period-appropriate mentions of the KKK to provide historical context for the 1920s South.
Sad ThemesMild
Focuses on the emotional strain of community division and friendships being tested and broken.
Sensitive Topics
The central conflict is the clash between Christian fundamentalism and the scientific theory of evolution. The approach is direct, presenting both viewpoints through characters who hold their beliefs sincerely. The narrative voice remains neutral, though it champions curiosity and critical thinking. The resolution is historically accurate and ambiguous: Scopes is convicted, but the larger cultural debate is left unresolved, reflecting its ongoing nature. There are also mild, historically appropriate references to racism and the KKK to establish the setting.
Ideal Reader
A curious middle schooler (11-14) interested in history, social justice, or how communities navigate disagreement. It's perfect for a child who is beginning to form their own opinions and is noticing that good people can have profoundly different worldviews. Also an excellent choice for reluctant readers, as the verse format is fast-paced and engaging.
Parent Prep
A little context is helpful. A brief, simple explanation of the Scopes Trial (a real court case about teaching evolution in schools) will enhance understanding. Parents should be prepared to discuss the ongoing nature of the science vs. faith debate in American culture. The book itself can be read cold, but follow-up conversations will be richer with this context. A parent notices their child struggling to understand a major disagreement in their community, school, or the news. The child might ask, "Why can't everyone just get along?" or express frustration trying to remain friends with someone who holds an opposing view on an important issue.
Age Experience
A younger reader (11-12) will likely focus on the story of the friendships under pressure, the excitement of the trial, and the injustice of a teacher being arrested. An older reader (13-14) will better appreciate the nuanced arguments about church and state, freedom of speech, and the powerful role the media plays in shaping public opinion. They will see the historical event as a microcosm of a larger, ongoing American cultural conflict.
What Makes It Special
The polyvocal, in-verse format is the book's greatest strength. Instead of a single protagonist's journey, it offers a kaleidoscopic view of a community under a microscope. This structure gives equal weight to many perspectives, transforming a historical event from a dry textbook entry into a vibrant, personal, and emotionally resonant drama.
Read plot summary
This novel in verse captures the 1925 Scopes Trial in Dayton, Tennessee, through a chorus of distinct voices. Narrators include local teenagers whose friendships are tested, cynical reporters like H. L. Mencken, and the famous lawyers William Jennings Bryan and Clarence Darrow. As the trial over teaching evolution unfolds, the small town transforms into a media circus, forcing its residents to confront deep divisions over science, faith, and freedom of thought. The story focuses less on the legal outcome and more on the trial's profound impact on the community's relationships and identity.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Mary-Lu and Willy have very different views because of their fathers. How does their friendship change over the course of the trial? Do you think they can remain close friends in the future?
2
The author uses many different voices, from young people to famous lawyers like Clarence Darrow. Why do you think she chose to tell the story this way? Which character's perspective surprised you the most?
3
Jimmy, the boy from the hills, says, 'A man can think what he wants in his own private head.' How does this idea of private thoughts versus public speech play out for different characters in Dayton?
4
At the end, the trial's verdict feels less important than how the town has changed. What do you think was the biggest long-term impact of the trial on the people of Dayton?
5
Reporter H.L. Mencken is very critical of the people of Dayton. Do you think his portrayal is fair? How does the 'outsider' perspective change your understanding of the events?
