"Bright Purple: Color Me Confused" by Melody Carlson
Review written by Diana Iozzia

I read this book in late middle school and early into my high school years. I remember reading this book, and it was very insightful for a young female brain like my own. The TrueColors series was very informative and natural to young adults. I recognized and still recognize how the books approach very serious topics for young adults, but they are written as cautionary tales and advice columns would be written.

Color Me Confused is about homosexuality, primarily with the female protagonist conflicted how to involve herself in the bullying her friend endures after coming out of the closet. I identify as bisexual. When I was reading this, I was not fully understanding my sexuality, but I understood that I was attracted to females in a different way than my other friends did. I cannot tell you that this book solved my problems, but it was very interesting to see how the main character protected her friend.

Naturally, there are some references that date the book, but it still feels very comfortable to be read by audiences now. I think that although they are older, young adults can still become more informed about serious topics without having to watch violent and horrible news stories. ( )

Book 10 in the TrueColors series addresses the sensitive issue of homosexuality.