Book cover for Free Girls by Kristen McCallum. An illustrated person sits on the hood of a purple car while three other figures stand nearby beneath a colorful pink, orange, and purple sky. The title appears in large white script at the top of the cover.

Beyond the Script: Denver Public Library’s Guide to The Outsiders

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The Denver Public Library recommends these library resources to enhance your theater experience at The Outsiders

 

READ

Book cover for When We Ride by Rex Ogle. The cover features a vintage-style illustration of a classic car at the top, layered brushstrokes in blue and pink at the center, and an open book at the bottom. The title appears in large black lettering against a distressed cream-colored background, with the author's name at the top and “A Novel” at the bottom.When We Ride

by Rex Ogle

Why we recommend it: Diego faces deadly consequences when his friend starts using him for transportation to sell weed, then harder drugs. This gritty novel-in-verse uses sparse, tense language to explore themes like the price of loyalty and the far-reaching impacts of violence on teens.

WATCH        

Movie cover for Dìdi, a film by Sean Wang. Four teenagers are gathered closely together, with a person in a gray hoodie centered in the foreground. Large orange title text appears above the group.Dìdi

dir. Sean Wang (2024)

Why we recommend it: Though Dìdi is a more lighthearted and humorous coming-of-age story, Chris faces a lot of the same struggles as Ponyboy. If you enjoyed the tensions of expectations vs. reality, friends vs. family, and class divides in The Outsiders, be sure to check out this movie!

LISTEN 

Book cover for Amerikinda by Nico Lang. An illustrated brown bear stands above a large animal skull surrounded by rocks, leaves, and orange flowers against a black background. The title appears in orange lettering at the top.Amerikinda: 20 Years of Dualtone on CD

Why we recommend it: Jamestown Revival members Jonathan Clay and Zach Chance are also the composers responsible for the folk rock sounds of The Outsiders’ musical. For similar Americana vibes, check out this compilation album of indie folk artists covering each others’ songs. Listen to The Lone Bellow for energetic, emotional vocal harmonies or Shovels & Rope for raw country blues.

BONUS: For more places to listen, stream songs from Jamestown Revival, The Lone Bellow, and Shovels & Rope on Freegal+ Music using your library card.

DOWNLOAD 

Book cover for Free Girls by Kristen McCallum. An illustrated person sits on the hood of a purple car while three other figures stand nearby beneath a colorful pink, orange, and purple sky. The title appears in large white script at the top of the cover.Free Girls

by Kristen McCallum

Why we recommend it: Like Ponyboy, being in the wrong place at the wrong time completely changed Jasmine’s life. This heartfelt, reflective novel explores struggling with the consequences of past choices and the traumas of surviving a youth detention center.

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Resources provided by Denver Public Library

 

 

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