Izzy, Willy- Nilly- A YA Book

Last night I read a Young Adult novel by Cynthia Voigt entitled Izzy ,Willy -Nilly, about a 15 year old cheerleader who, after taking a ride from an intoxicated high school senior, is in a car accident and has a leg amputated as a result. The book is written in the first person and at least half of it covers her time in the hospital, then follows her home as she goes from using a walker and wheelchair to crutches, goes back to school, deals with a trio of friends who get real busy and have no time for her (one of whom dates the senior who was driving) and makes new friends.

Unfortunately the book ends just as Izzy is about to get her prosthesis, which limits discussions about living with a disability, rather than about acquiring one and dealing with the immediate aftermath.

The first person narrative is effective as Izzy copes with medical treatment, the reactions of family and friends, and gets to know herself better. I also liked the fact that she is not portrayed as a superhero. She doesn't want to go back to school, for example, and face everyone. There is a genuine portrayal of a real friendship that Izzy finds with Rosamunde, who visits her in the hospital and in a direct and compassionate way challenges Izzy so she can move on in ways her parents seem unable to do.

In one scene, Rosamunde visits Izzy's hospital room, described as stark and empty, bringing library books, a batik and vase her mother made, fun food and a game to play. Izzy looks around and says to herself the room doesn't look like hers- it's messy, but she she likes it. Her mother, who is very concerned with appearances, initially dislikes Rosamunde, but begins to understand that as a friend she sees what Izzy needs in ways her family may not.

I like the message of this book, that the changes that come with acquiring a disability are positive and it's also okay to get support for what may be tough to handle. It deals with issues such as staring, motivation, DWI, personal empowerment, empathy, friendship, and the myth that people with disabilities are asexual. It's not a new book (published in 1995) but a worthwhile - and quick - read for those either dealing with or learning about acquiring a disability.