Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu is lauded for its empowering feminist message and engaging storytelling. Reviewers praise its relatable characters and the protagonist's growth. However, some critics feel the plot is predictable and the dialogue occasionally didactic. Overall, it's celebrated for inspiring teens to stand up against sexism.

Readers who enjoyed The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas or Dumplin' by Julie Murphy will likely appreciate Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu. This book appeals to teens interested in feminist activism, high school dynamics, and a protagonist’s journey of empowerment through zine culture and grassroots organizing.

In Moxie by Jennifer Mathieu, junior Vivian Carter, frustrated by the sexist behavior at her East Texas high school, starts an anonymous zine inspired by the Riot Grrrl manifesto to challenge harassment and empower her female classmates. As the movement grows, Vivian navigates complex dynamics with her mother, friends, and her first boyfriend, mobilizing her peers to stand up against systemic sexism. The book includes incidents of sexual assault.

Inspirational / Hopeful / Challenging / Playful / Emotional

- Jennifer Mathieu, the author of Moxie, was a former high school English teacher which inspired her to write about teenage issues and activism.
- Moxie was adapted into a Netflix film in 2021, directed by Amy Poehler, who also stars in the movie.
- The novel Moxie has sparked real-life "Moxie Clubs" in schools, where students gather to discuss feminism and social justice, inspired by the book's themes.

**Vivian Carter**  
The 16-year-old protagonist navigating high school challenges and personal growth, particularly in terms of independence and activism rooted in her developing awareness of social justice issues.

**Lisa Carter**  
Vivian’s supportive mother, who once embraced a punk lifestyle and now balances her career in healthcare with raising Vivian, instilling values of independence and open communication in her daughter.

**Lucy Hernandez**  
A fellow junior and friend to Vivian, who inspires with her strong sense of social justice and active engagement in feminism, bringing new energy to the movement at their school.

**Claudia**  
Vivian’s longtime best friend, known for her petite stature and initial hesitance to challenge the norms, who gradually finds her voice and confidence to stand up against injustice.

**Seth Acosta**  
Vivian’s love interest, a thoughtful and supportive male ally from a progressive background, offering an outsider’s perspective to the cultural dynamics at East Rockport High.

**Principal Wilson**  
The high school principal, focused on preserving the school’s football-centric culture, often dismissing issues raised by students, revealing his loyalty to the status quo.

**Mitchell Wilson**  
The star football player and son of the principal, known for his sense of entitlement and involvement in bullying and harassment without facing repercussions.

**Emma Johnson**  
A well-groomed and popular junior, head cheerleader known for her confidence and attractiveness, who eventually becomes involved with advocating for change within the school's sexist culture.

Jennifer Mathieu

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

Explore Moxie reviews, reading age recommendations, and essential genre and thematic details before you start reading.

Before You Read Moxie | SuperSummary

title

content

Overview

Get ready to explore Moxie and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

Moxie

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read Moxie?

Reading Age

Book Details