I stumbled upon this novel while browsing new releases on my audiobook source (audible). I double checked the ratings against Amazon and was good to ...moreI stumbled upon this novel while browsing new releases on my audiobook source (audible). I double checked the ratings against Amazon and was good to go!
I'm glad I chose this novel! It was full of suspense and hard to predict and had great stories for each character.
This is the story that begins with the murder of a young woman. We hear/read the murder take place along with being given enough detail about the murdered woman to wish that she somehow survived (you find out in a chapter or so that she did not). The story switches to the boys who killed her and provides their story, moreso of the life of Thomas, who simultaneously deals with the murder and his father's suicide. The story next switches to the (pregnant with twins) woman investigating the murder and her force of police officers in Scotland that she works alongside with. As Alex invesigates the story, we meet a final character, Kay and her children who looks as if they will be unjustly tried for the murder.
I loved this novel because it was unpredictable and I found myself caring for each character (even Thomas). The stories of each were SO interesting. This is a great mystery. The language is a little bit harsh, so if you are suggesting it to high school students, it should only go to more mature students. Not only will this story linger with me, but I will also miss the voice of the Scottish narrator! Great selection!!!!!!(less)
We start this novel as April (the main character) rushes to answer the phone to find her dad and stepmom are coming to her "house" on a morn...moreWe start this novel as April (the main character) rushes to answer the phone to find her dad and stepmom are coming to her "house" on a morning that is especially reminiscent of the post party scene from Sixteen Candles. We soon find that April has been staying with her friend in a parent-less home after lying to her dad that her friend Vi's mom would be living at home and watching both girls. This is the lie which begins the Ten Things We Did (and Probably Shouldn't Have) which are the backdrop to a cute story which will have teens alternately jealous of the girl's freedoms, cringe at some of their decisions, yet root for both girls and their friendships as they navigate life. While the girls partake in some adult situations, they are not graphic and deeper issues are at times explored allowing readers to simultaneously be educated on dangers of these decisions as they read.(less)
The Other Wes Moore is a story which is, at the least, thought provoking. This story is authored by the Wes Moore who achieves great accomplishments ...moreThe Other Wes Moore is a story which is, at the least, thought provoking. This story is authored by the Wes Moore who achieves great accomplishments as he compares his life to that of another Wes Moore, who is serving a life sentence in jail. Haunted by the story of a person who not only shared his name, but also the same age and geography, author Wes Moore sets out to meet and learn more about the "other Wes Moore". In alternating segments, the book explores both men's childhood and upbringing. I oscillate between being disturbed that the author almost discounts important factors such as the difference in their mothers and siblings, extended families, and education and attributes their life outcomes as factors based upon decisions and/or second chances and being inspired by the story and the thoughts that it has stirred for me. The book is thought provoking as to what does determine success and what to do about deep rooted social issues such as poverty and urban life. The book has the ability to prompt deep discussion and debate, especially since all readers will not be especially likely to view the stories and philosophical concepts exactly as the author presents them.(less)
This disturbing, yet important, novel begins with Ann lying amidst broken debris after her boyfriend has beaten her. As the reader turns the pages, t...moreThis disturbing, yet important, novel begins with Ann lying amidst broken debris after her boyfriend has beaten her. As the reader turns the pages, they find they go back in time to read of Ann and Connor's relationship in reverse. We see Ann, go from terrified victim to a girl who has given up friends, family, and college dreams and only wants desperately to prove to her boyfriend that she loves him, can be trusted, and hopes to fix him. Ultimately we see Ann as a girl who does have college dreams, friends, and a talent for running that has innocently stumbled upon possible love. Similarly, we see Connor go from abuser who rotates between vicious physical and emotional abuse and apologies to a boy who only has an anger issue and only hits "things instead of people". Ultimately we see Connor start the relationship as a caring boyfriend who regularly has to act as savior to his mother as she suffers abuse from Connor's father.
In an end interview, we see the author explain the purpose of going backwards in time. She states that there are points in time that the reader typically would place blame on the victim (typically the beginning of physical abuse) and separate themselves from them emotionally. Writing the novel in reverse disabled the reader from being able to do so. She also mentions in her interview that the abuser in young adult fiction is often portrayed as a person with an anger problem and the novel lacks deeper insight into the emotional and psychological cause of the cycle of abuse.
This novel is a great selection for high school students to better understand the issue of relationship abuse. It should circulate heavily.
Life has its way of throwing punches, many of which are unevenly doled out. Hal, the son of a former Araluen slave and a Skandian who freed her, is s...moreLife has its way of throwing punches, many of which are unevenly doled out. Hal, the son of a former Araluen slave and a Skandian who freed her, is seen as not fully Skandian and, therefore, not fully worthy of respect. To add to it, Hal's father died when he was young and he has been raised by his mother with the help of the town drunk. Hal is becoming of age to enter Brotherband training and endures the taunts from a local bully and others and is not selected into a Brotherband. He, and other misfits, are assigned to their own Brotherband and are grossly unevenly matched. John Flanagan appeals to our human nature as he shares the stories of these outsiders and conveys how they represent all that is good and moral in life. The story is full of adventure and humanity and will leave reader's craving more when the last page is turned.
This is a must purchase for any librarian who has supplied throngs of students desperately waiting for each of the titles in the Ranger's Apprentice series. John Flanagan explains in this video how The Brotherband Chronicles uses characters and settings readers of The Ranger's Apprentice will be familiar with: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cLOlbUAgw...
I, however, chose to start with The Brotherband and love it without having read the previous series. This was a title that I purchased in audio format and the narrator was superb - not overly dramatic or difficult to understand given his accent.(less)
This was an interesting story about 5 children taken from their home and provided with opportunities to sell their souls to the devil (spinoff on orig...moreThis was an interesting story about 5 children taken from their home and provided with opportunities to sell their souls to the devil (spinoff on original Faust). I selected it because it seemed to be a trendy take on the classic and, although it was, it missed the mark to a degree. I did like the concept and I liked how they illustrated how good can triumph over evil and the integration of human nature and vulnerability into decisions which may originally seem small.(less)
Ghosts of War is the story of Ryan Smithson, a boy who joined the military upon high school graduation. Ryan was moved by 9/11 (which occurred during...moreGhosts of War is the story of Ryan Smithson, a boy who joined the military upon high school graduation. Ryan was moved by 9/11 (which occurred during his high school years) to enlist. However, he only enlisted in the reserves thinking (and being told) that he should be safe not to be stationed overseas. Ironically, Ryan was sent right away and worked with a group on heavy equipment. His chronicles are not only enlightening as to what it was like to be a soldier in Iraq, but he has worked on some entries to be strong in the literary sense (The House that Achmed Built). Even though Ryan did not see a lot of death of his unit, the scars are deep and adjustment back into civilian life was difficult. This book is a testament to that time in which he found writing was allowing him to heal contrary to speaking directly with people. This is an excellent suggestion for people who love military narrative nonfiction.(less)
Anne Ursu weaves a captivating blend of reality and fantasy in Breadcrumbs, a story of a lonely young girl and her best friend. The only comfort that...moreAnne Ursu weaves a captivating blend of reality and fantasy in Breadcrumbs, a story of a lonely young girl and her best friend. The only comfort that Hazel has in her life is Jack. Hazel grasps tightly to their friendship as it anchors her through difficulties at home and regular taunts and cruelty at school. Jack does not mind and is equally happy spending every moment with Hazel. All is well until one day when Jack is injured; from that moment on Jack is as equally cruel to Hazel as the other boys. Anne Ursu creatively uses literary repetition to illustrate how Jack's initial insensitivity gets replayed in Hazel's head forever after. Hazel is truly shaken that her emotional lifeline is lost and becomes distressed.
Shortly afterwards, Jack disappears and Hazel recieves a lead as to where he went and goes on a quest to save Jack. Hazel enters another world (the world of the Snow Queen) where she encounters helpful animals and various people who are more regularly dangerous than helpful. Hazel uses her honesty, bravery, and mind to triumph and works to save Jack and ultimately, herself.
This beautiful story is written for upper elementary and middle school readers, however as with any fairy tale, there is a place for it with readers of all ages. It is full of themes of reality and fantasy that would yield a great discussion.
Sidenote: I listened to the audio version of this book, but must note that there are illustrations in the print version and, after looking at the amazon.com preview of the book, it looks as if they are drawn beautifully and really enhance the story.(less)
This nonfiction book chronicles the life of Ashley Rhodes-Courter as she grew up in the foster care system. Ashley began foster care at the age of th...moreThis nonfiction book chronicles the life of Ashley Rhodes-Courter as she grew up in the foster care system. Ashley began foster care at the age of three and relied on many of her records to convey her earlier story. However, much of the detail is embedded into her memory as it was very disturbing for her as she constantly switched placements and was continuously pulled away and reunited with her brother.
This was a very difficult read for me. Ashley honestly conveyed her behaviors as a troubled young girl. I cared for her very much, so it was hard for me to see her attempt to fail at adoption because she was scared it would ultimately end in failure and it would be easier to fail prior to becoming attached than if she were attached and therefore cause her great pain. We watched as Ashley began to emotionally detach herself from her mother and brother and those she lived with.
Reminscent of A Child Called It, Ashley suffered abuse at one foster placement and I was horrified at how often she spoke up about the abuse with no punishment resulting to the foster parents and they continued to be allowed to foster and adopt children.
We find out that many of her foster parents had criminal records prior to her placement in their homes. It was extremely difficult to read emotionally and very appalling to learn that Ashley received such little attention and care.
This story is a true example of how great tragedy inspires great works and Ashley is now a spokesperson for helping others get better foster care and encourages adoption. She can be found on youtube as an ambassador for the cause.(less)
What Happened to Goodbye is the story of Mclean, a girl who has been through the very public divorce of her parents. Mclean lives with her dad after ...moreWhat Happened to Goodbye is the story of Mclean, a girl who has been through the very public divorce of her parents. Mclean lives with her dad after fighting in the court system to be allowed to choose who to live with.
Mclean and her dad begin the story enmeshed in their routine which is to move towns according to the wishes of her dad's company (a restaurant consultant quite similar to that of Robert Irvine's role on Restaurant Impossible but with a longer stay).
Sarah Dessen quickly integrates the theme that while Mclean and her dad are moving from town to town, they are also moving from relationship to relationship. While understandable that both would crave the lifestyle they are leading, this ultimately becomes unhealthy and Sarah Dessen beautifully brings her audience into realizing that (via her characters). An emotional fallout happens with both Mclean's mother and friends and really unearths some of the feelings Mclean has had for awhile. This story is different in that, neither Mclean's mother or friends ever abandon her as a result of the fallout - they stick with her and teach her the true meaning of friendship and parental love.
Another great story from Sarah Dessen!!!!! I feel sort of bad not giving it five stars, but Sarah Dessen's books are not the sort that make you awestruck, but they linger with you for a long time and her books CONSTANTLY circulate in the library - if you are a librarian, buy multiple copies of this one, too! (less)
This historical novel written in verse is a perfect selection for any student but what a great find it would be for someone required to read historica...moreThis historical novel written in verse is a perfect selection for any student but what a great find it would be for someone required to read historical fiction! Jame Richard's knowledge and research is impressive; she weaves her wealth of knowledge (gathered on this one specific event in history since she was a child) into verse which is simple yet draws readers immediately into the various characters lives and situations. The class differences are interesting and they illustrate how money does not necessarily equate to happiness or kindness. The story ties up nicely for each character and the characters have a way of staying in your thoughts for days after completing the book, especially because the author concludes with comments on how a few are modeled after actual people who endured the Johnstown Flood. It was an appropriate time of year to read this novel since we just had Hurricane Irene swing through our area bringing fear of floods. Luckily I was able to read the entire story in a nice dry, warm home :)(less)
Fallout completes Ellen Hopkins Crank trilogy. While Crank presents Kristina's life changing exposure to drugs (via a court ordered visit to her dad)...moreFallout completes Ellen Hopkins Crank trilogy. While Crank presents Kristina's life changing exposure to drugs (via a court ordered visit to her dad) and Glass graphically explains how an innocent life can be damaged through drug addiction (on many levels), Fallout centers around three of Kristina's five children that she has had since becoming addicted to methamphetamines. Each of her children in the novel lead separate lives from each other and their mother.
The reason I absolutely love Ellen Hopkins is her ability to take the topics we all fear and makes them understandable. She truly understands human psychology and is gifted in how she conveys emotion and its tie-in with tragic life events. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dCu5t6vj0... This is, unfortunately, a topic she is intimate with since Kristina is a fictionalized version of her own daughter and Fallout is fictitious to her grandchildren. (less)
David Crawford's Lights Out is a fictionalized work about a magnetic disaster which kills the electrical power for the entire United States plus addit...moreDavid Crawford's Lights Out is a fictionalized work about a magnetic disaster which kills the electrical power for the entire United States plus additional countries. The main character, Mark quickly invites friends and family to stay with his family in a rural area to make it through the unknown amount of time they will endure the lack of electricity. It becomes evident that the electricity will not be restored and Mark and his friend Jim must weigh whether to accept an invitation into a compound which has been developed for survival of this type of disaster. The decisions are interesting and survival becomes more and more difficult illustrated by stories of horrible events such as gang activity, riots, and worse.
It is a really interesting and plausible story. It was difficult for me to like Mark at first, and I think that it was just a result of awkward character development; as the plot thickened it was easier to forgive Mark for his personality and the author developed more of Mark's human attributes later on in the story. Although there are themes of good v. evil and importance of community, I am left reeling with knowledge that an event such as the fictionalized one presented in this story would end poorly for so many people.(less)
This is my first audio book on the Kindle via Audible.com. It is somewhat difficult for me to separate what I feel about the novel from what I feel a...moreThis is my first audio book on the Kindle via Audible.com. It is somewhat difficult for me to separate what I feel about the novel from what I feel about the narration, but here is my try!
The novel was set in North Carolina and is a story of two young women. The first, Willa, is a former prankster who is now living a safe, nonexciting life by her own choice. The second, Paxton, is a girl raised in wealth and is going through the motions of what is expected of her. Neither girl is happy and when a literal skeleton is excavated, both lives begin to change. It was a nice story and it kept me interested, but somehow it doesn't stand out. I felt it had elements similar to that of Fried Green Tomatoes, with the southern setting and the friendship and romance. The review promises big drama and magic and while it is presented, it never feels big. The characters go through important growth that is nice to see, but they don't grab your heart or make you feel as if you are living their life as you hear the story.
Is all of this the result of the audio format? I don't know and I feel like I owe it to Sarah Addison Allen to read another of her titles in print format. This is a best selling author that has received a lot of respect. I did like this story and wonder how much more I would have liked it if I read it versus listened to it. The bottom line is that the narrator's voice (tone and inflections, etc.) really felt overdramatized and almost pretentious. That really got on my nerves.
Audiobooks to Kindle! A quick review
I decided to do the free trial of Audible.com on Kindle and I'm on the fence about continuing. I actually think I will, but I hate adding another monthly bill. I love listening to my book on my commute and I listen to it on my elliptical (while watching our computer go into slide show mode)- maybe if I keep my subscription I will use my elliptical more???
Things I would change:
We don't get to read along like you do with text to speech - I sort of like the ability to read as you listen especially when it comes to beginning readers and reluctant readers. I prefer to hear a human voice versus the text to speech.
I would make the Kindle louder - I actually need to plug in a portable speaker to it for commuting since the road noises overpower the audio. Even with my speaker, it doesn't get that loud (but I probably just need to shop for a different speaker set)
I would definitely preview the audiobook prior to purchasing (audible.com lets you do that but I became a little over-excited). The voice of my narrator (The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen) is pretty grating on the nerves.
I would make the monthly fee cheaper.
Overall, I'm so glad Amazon went this route with Kindle!!! What a smart idea!
(less)
I chose this one via audible for Kindle and I am really glad I selected it. It ties stories of many women together and the stories are great for disc...moreI chose this one via audible for Kindle and I am really glad I selected it. It ties stories of many women together and the stories are great for discussion. I can really see this one as a great selection for a book discussion group! Maybe Goodreads will host an author discussion for a few days!!!!
If you spotted me wiping tears off my face on my commute - it was from this book. It was multi-layered, sad, happy, and showed how important simple things such as family and friendship truly are. (less)
High School students will gravitate towards this trendy little book about high school drama. Paisley Hanover is a fighter for the unpopular kids and ...moreHigh School students will gravitate towards this trendy little book about high school drama. Paisley Hanover is a fighter for the unpopular kids and begins the book by winning a student government election, yet not being awarded with the title. Her classmates are in an uproar because they know she won and go to the vice principal's office to demand a recount. He allows a recount by handing them the shredded ballots. They stage a protest and in the meantime Paisley and her friends have a ton of additional drama that they are going through. There is a sexting incident which doesn't look good for Paisley's friend, Jen. Paisley has more than one boyfriend that she is juggling and doesn't know what to do about and Paisley and her protesters are getting slammed in the school newspaper. Drama does not bring Paisley and her friends down. Together, they outwit it all in a funny, cute, drama packed book.(less)
Right from the start, first time author Sheila A. Nielson weaves a beautiful story about a girl and her family whose fortunes have changed and they ar...moreRight from the start, first time author Sheila A. Nielson weaves a beautiful story about a girl and her family whose fortunes have changed and they are struggling on a daily basis to survive. The characters are exceptionally well drawn beginning with Adrianne, who stops at nothing to help her family (and others) obtain food and happiness. After her father's death, Adrianne is left with a beloved little sister (reminiscent of Prim in The Hunger Games), a loving yet meek mother, and a horrible aunt who ridicules and despises Adrianne. A family of friends is helping them to survive; Adrianne is appreciative but it is difficult for her to need help for survival. They live in a seaside village and a mermaid has come into to contact with Adrianne and her sister and appears to be trying to drown Adrianne's little sister. Adrianne and her sister begin to try to avoid the sea, but it becomes apparent that the mermaid will not stop until she gets her sacrifice. Boldly, Adrianne tries to save her family from the social ridicule and isolation they will receive as the village is learning that they are the prey of the mermaid. The story is really captivating with a setting and characters that are extremely solid. Watch for more from this author! (less)
Julia is a valedictorian who is heading to law school. Her absent older sister surprises her with a graduation visit, and gives her a car and a key t...moreJulia is a valedictorian who is heading to law school. Her absent older sister surprises her with a graduation visit, and gives her a car and a key to her apartment as a gift. Overwhelmed, Julia is grateful but doesn't know how to respond since her sister has been consistently terrible to her entire family and continues to be on her graduation night claiming it will be her last visit home forever.
Julia tries to ignore the drama, but later asks her parents about a part of the conversation that her sister brought up. A huge family secret is revealed and Julia runs to her sister for answers. The answers are not easy and Julia recognizes that her sister is in a great deal of pain as a result of the secrets.
She makes the decision to pass up a prestigious internship and instead stay with her sister and help her renovate a new house that she bought and is turning into a bakery. What was once a difficult relationship where neither sister really knew the other, love and understanding begins to develop. The complete family secret comes out in time and is very emotionally difficult on Julia's sister. While Julia's sister is finally giving the events the attention that she must to move on, she is also pushing Julia to question the future that she has chosen for herself.
This story of love and forgiveness is a tearjerker that ranks with books by top YA authors such as Sarah Dessen. I am not sure why Cecilia Galante hasn't received greater attention for this title, but she deserves excellent reviews and wide readership.(less)
This is a somewhat mesmerizing novel about a girl named Pearl whose live has just been upended by her father. He has left her and her mother virtuall...moreThis is a somewhat mesmerizing novel about a girl named Pearl whose live has just been upended by her father. He has left her and her mother virtually homeless and penniless. As a result, they move onto Pearl's uncle's California avocado ranch. The relationship is a bit strained, but the reader soon sees that the origin occurred prior to their financial reliance upon her uncle's family and mainly lies with her aunt. Pearl has actually grown up locally and has been close with her cousin since childhood and the relationship between her and her cousin is quite idealistic. One day, Pearl notices a boy in a group of migrant workers looking for work and she eventually convinces her uncle to hire him. As if by fate, Pearl is drawn to Amiel and they begin a relationship that starts on a strained level and becomes more comfortable even though verbal communication is inhibited pretty severely. A fire begins one day and Pearl knows she must try to save Amiel, who is in danger and she runs away to help him but disaster occurs which tragically changes the family forever.
This National Book Award finalist has a beautifully crafted plot, however some of the character development with Amiel is lacking. Is it worthy of the award? I'm not so convinced. Was it a book that I happily read from front to back and enjoyed? Yes.(less)
This is the follow up book to Painting Caitlin, which I had not read. While I hadn't read the previous title, I was able to follow along easily.
...moreThis is the follow up book to Painting Caitlin, which I had not read. While I hadn't read the previous title, I was able to follow along easily.
Caitlin begins this book self reflective after coming out of an abusive relationship. She is trying to do things right and go slowly. Her best friend, Ashley, has signed up for an exchange in Canada which immerses students in the French language but situations arise and Ashley cannot go. She asks Caitlin to take her place.
Caitlin goes even though she isn't certain she is ready. Her other best friend, Connor, is also a part of the exchange. While she is nervous about it, Caitlin begins a new relationship with Conner. Kimberly Joy Peters does a good job of presenting what is often true in our lives. That opportunity doesn't always come up at the exactly right moment, but we must take risks and grab the opportunity when it is right.
There is a side story going on in which Caitlin's birth father, who left her at age four, contacts her again. Much of the book is dedicated to Caitlin's struggles on what she should do. However, the book is not brought down by the struggles. Instead, a very honest and vulnerable Caitlin is presented which readers will easily empathize with.
While the plot seems a bit basic, I thought this book rose above average in its reflective nature. I think the author did a great job handling the difficulty of mixed emotion. The author embeds a decent amount of French into her text which will be nice for anyone learning the language. I don't know the language and did fine since she helped a lot with the context along the way.
Painting Caitlin won many accolades and the sequel is bound to be really popular in circulation, too.
Note: there are also two books out about Caitlin's friend Ashley (Posing as Ashley and Definitely not Camelot)(less)
This was a title that I received from my book review committee and I saw that it was on a best of 2010 list so I prioritized it.
This is a ...moreThis was a title that I received from my book review committee and I saw that it was on a best of 2010 list so I prioritized it.
This is a sweet novel which centers around thirteen-year-old Frankie, his friends, and his wacky but lovable family. The novel is set in New Zealand, so it offers a fun look into their culture. As Frankie's life unrolls and you see his family with their infectious fun, you also begin to see a flip side that there is something wrong that is not being addressed. The reader first hears that Frankie's mother hasn't left the house in a long time. Later, you see that Frankie, himself, has deep concern about his own genetics and his concerns begin to debilitate his life. While no answers come easily, help does come to Frankie offering hope that he will survive. The mix between happy interactions and more serious issues provided by Kate de Goldi offer a nice backdrop to the story.
The reason I only give this title three stars (meaning I like it) is that part of my role in my book review committee is to translate how teenagers will interact with the title. Unfortunately, I feel that there will be an extremely limited readership for this title. The novel is not written for reluctant readers because it requires a significant amount of attention. The cover art, while it is appropriate to the novel, will not draw readers. I think that this is sad because I think this novel with a little bit of marketing changes and maybe other minor changes could have reached a larger audience.
I was given this book to review by my Pennsylvania School Library Association book review committee and I was surprised to love it. The cover art on ...moreI was given this book to review by my Pennsylvania School Library Association book review committee and I was surprised to love it. The cover art on the paperback copy I was sent was nondescript and didn't stand out (different cover art than what appears with this review). When I flipped through, I saw that it was written in verse and would at least be quick to assess, so I brought it home.
Long story short, I find myself giving it five stars. This little book that appears basic is actually quite moving and inspirational. The book alternates between the story of Ishmael in the Bible and present day Sam. Nikki Grimes begins by presenting Ishmael's struggles as he and his mother are literally sent homeless into the desert by his father. Ishmael's story is then contrasted with Sam's similar story of the the loss of his father to another marriage and son in subsequent chapters. Both boys are feeling lost, angry, and abandoned, however, both find strength and sustenance through God. This novel is written in verse and is flowing with human nature and emotion which is so evidently timeless, themes of religion, betrayal, and survival, and laden with symbolism.
I gave this novel five stars because the timeless human message is an important one - it is rare that we can so easily identify with stories from so long ago, Nikki Grimes really targeted the human aspect of both characters and just as it doesn't matter how long ago Ishmael lived to identify with his story, it also won't matter in twenty years that Sam was "modern day" once the book ages. I also really loved the message of faith that the story gave, while it faith that is based upon religion, it can easily be something that a person of another religious faith can identify with - the identification that while both boys were lost, they were taken care of and able to find it in their hearts to forgive deep betrayals.
In a novel reminiscent of the Salem Witch Trials, Eireann Corrigan, presents the story of Finn and Chloe. The girls (Finn is Finley) have grown up to...moreIn a novel reminiscent of the Salem Witch Trials, Eireann Corrigan, presents the story of Finn and Chloe. The girls (Finn is Finley) have grown up together on Finn's farm since they were in first grade and have been best friends since early on. The girls are now in high school and are living the lives that they believe will set them on the upper echelon college track. This all changes when they begin their series of college preparation talks at the beginning of their junior year in which their counselor suggests that good grades and well rounded activities are not enough for ivy league. Chloe becomes inspired to fake her own abduction in order to stand out and Finn helps her. The novel starts with Chloe abducted and Finn reminiscing about the plans as she lies to everyone in sight. Things go out of hand as the reader realizes that Chloe's part of the plot lies more in attention seeking, manipulative, behaviors and Finn cannot undo their actions.
This is a good novel in illustrating to teens that actions that you may think are not harmful can become harmful. This book should get consistent circulation but is unlikely to be a crowd favorite.(less)
Reeling in grief since the loss of her father, Sandy is beginning not to be able to stand any part of her life. Her emotionally unavailable mother on...moreReeling in grief since the loss of her father, Sandy is beginning not to be able to stand any part of her life. Her emotionally unavailable mother only complains that she needs to get used to the fact that things have changed with no offers to listen to Sandy or understand her.
Sandy's best friend is a good friend but is currently trying her best to deal with the fact that her own mother is bringing home scary strangers from the bar during late nights. Combined with her best friend, she also has a new relationship starting with the boy next door. Both Sandy's new boyfriend and best friend want to help her but love cannot conquer Sandy's grief; she needs a counselor and a mother.
I believe I liked this story better at the beginning. The sitations are somewhat unique to YA fiction and the characters are well drawn; however, their conversations became a little cliche. Will teen readers forgive this? I think they most likely will, especially if they can identify with their stories. I look forward to seeing more by this new author and watching her develop as a writer.(less)
We have another book which falls under the category of shock title. It is, however, very appropriately named. Lucy is the youngest child of a hoarde...moreWe have another book which falls under the category of shock title. It is, however, very appropriately named. Lucy is the youngest child of a hoarder. She is now living alone with her mother and has suffered the consequences for all of life that she can remember. She has had to forgo friends coming over, sleepovers, etc. Once, when Lucy was caught unaware, a friend entered her house and her reaction was to publicly humiliate Lucy.
Lucy is now sixteen and works carefully to keep her few friends away from her house. She returns home to a big surprise; her mom is dead under a stack of magazines and newspapers that fall upon her. Lucy spends much of the novel trying to cover up any evidence of hoarding so that the paramedics do not see the home and have the media get wind of the situation.
At the beginning of the novel, the writing was somewhat basic as Lucy was with her friends (the author is not the caliber of Sarah Dessen but teenagers will most likely forgive her and continue reading). As soon as the author charts familiar territory (hoarding - because she works with hoarders and children of hoarders) the novel becomes really interesting and unique enough to read and not want to set down. Much of the novel covers the emotional aspects that a child of a hoarder encounters and is really interesting and well done.
This is a good novel for teenagers to begin to understand the emotional impact various illnesses have upon individuals.(less)
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