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You Can't Shatter Me
Sixteen-year-old, Carly, is set to become top of her art class until bully-boy, Justin, gives her a vicious payback for standing up for one of his victims. Her boyfriend, karate-trained nerd, Dylan, wants to smash the guys face in, but a fight at school means suspension, losing his chance at school honors and facing a furious father. Carly is determined to find a more creative solution to her problem, but will she sort it out before Dylan's inner cave man hijacks him and all hell breaks lose?
Justin might be a pain, but his harassment leads to a deepening of Dylan and Carly's romance, and Carly finds an inner strength she didn't know she had. The magical realism style provides a touch of fantasy in an otherwise very real story that offers heart-warming solutions to bullying. You Can't Shatter Me is food for the soul. It has received a BRAG Medallion for outstanding fiction and an AIA Seal of Excellence in independent fiction.
Justin might be a pain, but his harassment leads to a deepening of Dylan and Carly's romance, and Carly finds an inner strength she didn't know she had. The magical realism style provides a touch of fantasy in an otherwise very real story that offers heart-warming solutions to bullying. You Can't Shatter Me is food for the soul. It has received a BRAG Medallion for outstanding fiction and an AIA Seal of Excellence in independent fiction.
160 pages, ebook
First published June 21, 2012
12 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Tahlia Newland
23 books82 followersTahlia Newland is a multi-passionate artist, author and editor. She is the author of seven magical-realism novels, plus books on writing, meditation, and recovering from spiritual abuse in Tibetan Buddhism. She works as an editor and publisher for Alkira Publishing, and in her spare time, she creates AI art or makes masks or decorates hats, which she sells as TahliasArtAndCraft on Etsy.
On her blog and social media, she writes on navigating this crazy world as a neurodivergent contemplative with a passion for nature, story and art. She animates some of her AI imagery, turns it into music videos, and posts it on her Psychemagination: Tahlia Dreaming YouTube Channel.
On her blog and social media, she writes on navigating this crazy world as a neurodivergent contemplative with a passion for nature, story and art. She animates some of her AI imagery, turns it into music videos, and posts it on her Psychemagination: Tahlia Dreaming YouTube Channel.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
May 17, 2015
I tossed up between a 3 and 4 star rating for this one. I went with a 4 as you can see. The reason I wasn't sure was because I felt that the imagery and the fantasy aspect seemed a little too prominent within the story.
Hold up, I'm getting ahead of myself here.
Tahlia has a very strong story here, the characters are realistic, honest and believable. Their reactions are true to being a teenager and the situations they find themselves in is a realistic representation of what a teenager might go through at school. It's important these days to teach children about bullying and how to deal with it.
An indie book to rival the finished products of the big six, Tahlia should be very proud of the highly glossy polish this book has. If all indie authors could produce this standard of work, the readers of today would be in for a treat!
Now, back onto the story, while there were cliche moments, it didn't disrupt the storyline. In fact I think some of them helped to solidify the moment in the story and show character growth and development.
Where I took a step back from the story was with the imaginary happenings of the characters, the strange cut scenes that they used to help make important discoveries and growth. They seemed a little too 'young' for the story to me. It could be that I'm just not the intended target audience of You Can't Shatter Me, and as I believe that is the case I overlooked that and bumped up the rating.
This book would be a great one to share with the young adult in your life, be they a son, daughter, niece or nephew. It highlights the bravery required to overcome bullying, but it also teaches them other valuable lessons about self worth and being kind to others. It should be compulsory reading for all Primary and High school kids today.
**Note: I was provided an electronic version of the book in return for an honest review**
Hold up, I'm getting ahead of myself here.
Tahlia has a very strong story here, the characters are realistic, honest and believable. Their reactions are true to being a teenager and the situations they find themselves in is a realistic representation of what a teenager might go through at school. It's important these days to teach children about bullying and how to deal with it.
An indie book to rival the finished products of the big six, Tahlia should be very proud of the highly glossy polish this book has. If all indie authors could produce this standard of work, the readers of today would be in for a treat!
Now, back onto the story, while there were cliche moments, it didn't disrupt the storyline. In fact I think some of them helped to solidify the moment in the story and show character growth and development.
Where I took a step back from the story was with the imaginary happenings of the characters, the strange cut scenes that they used to help make important discoveries and growth. They seemed a little too 'young' for the story to me. It could be that I'm just not the intended target audience of You Can't Shatter Me, and as I believe that is the case I overlooked that and bumped up the rating.
This book would be a great one to share with the young adult in your life, be they a son, daughter, niece or nephew. It highlights the bravery required to overcome bullying, but it also teaches them other valuable lessons about self worth and being kind to others. It should be compulsory reading for all Primary and High school kids today.
**Note: I was provided an electronic version of the book in return for an honest review**
May 30, 2013
Review by: Katie French
Title: You Can't Shatter Me
Author: Tahlia Newland
Publisher: Catapult Press
Genre(s): Young Adult, Magical Realism
Length: 140 pages
The Rundown
With bullying on the forefront of everyone’s minds these days, it is no wonder that You Can’t Shatter Me, a young adult magical realism story, caught my eye. The story revolves around two young protagonists: Carly, the teenage girl-next-door with a huge imagination and Dylan, the nerdy-yet-lovable boy who catches her eye. The two embark on a sweet first romance that is often interrupted by the local bully, Justin. Like all bullies, he finds great joy in picking on those different than himself. When Dylan stands up for one of these poor souls, Carly knows he is the boy she’d like to get to know. The story is told through a series of events, punctuated by imaginative scenes where giant hooks dangle from the sky or words appear and zoom around the characters. The tone is whimsical and light, with some deep messages about standing up for yourself and not conforming to those that might want to bring you down.
The Review
The book was well-written and Newland’s voice is both interesting and unique. Both characters are likable, as is the supporting cast of friends and siblings. The bully and his cohorts were a little stereotypical, but the depth of Carly and Dylan helped me to overlook that detail. Newland shows she is a master at the English language and you get some fun tidbits of Australia lore and lingo here as well.
There are two issues I have with this book. One is I felt the magical realism scenes were a little off-putting. For example, Dylan and Carly are on their first date. In the middle of that scene, Dylan has an imaginary conversation with a director about sticking to the script and using more compliant actresses. It stopped the forward momentum of the story and seemed a little bizarre. I think I got what Newland was trying to do, but an inner-monologue could have sufficed. This went on throughout the story and sometimes I couldn’t tell if the events were actually taking place or all in their minds.
The second issue is the seemingly-adult nature with which the bullying situations were handled. In my day job as a school counselor, we often try to tell students to make good choices when it comes to dealing with peers. Half the time they do so, but the other half of the time their emotions and hormones get the better of them and they make the wrong choice. Such is life. We live and learn. Yet, somehow Carly and Dylan always seemed to make the right choice. And at the end, a bit of heavy-handed life lesson shows up to tie it all into a neat bow. I am not sure that teens would connect with this much perfect, Pollyanna sweetness. With most teen literature even the protagonists make bad choices. It is how they then deal with them and grow that makes the book interesting.
The book is definitely worth a look, especially for a teen who has struggled through bullying. This book may be therapeutic for someone who has suffered on the wrong end of a misguided peer. The even better news is that the Kindle book is free on Amazon from May 29th - the 31st. Grab it while you still can.
Three and a half out of Five Stars
June 14, 2012
In this unique YA magical realism novel by Tahlia Newland, teenager Carly Simmons tries to write her own superhero story by standing up for an overweight boy who is being tormented by the school’s resident terror. As all superheroes are apt to do, she earns herself an archenemy in the angry, bullying Justin. But she also finds a boyfriend in smart and sensitive Dylan, karate student and brainy nerd, who admires her for taking a stand.
This fast-paced, short novel combines an extremely original mix of real life difficult situations and magical elements sprung from the imaginations of main characters Carly and Dylan, as they envision ways to overcome everyday challenges, problems and obstacles. I loved the dual perspective of the two main characters and their individual voices as they faced issues all young people struggle with, and their personalities shined through in both their daily lives and relationships and through the inventive analogies constructed by their minds while they worked out their own special roles in the story they choose to make of their lives. The wonderful messages of the novel, about learning compassion, recognizing the suffering in others and combatting hate with love are blended naturally into realistic situations and conversations to offer advice on how to deal with difficult and painful experiences in a positive way, while the sweet, blossoming romance between Carly and Dylan, based on respect and trust, gives a story that deals with the harsh reality of bullying a softer side and underscores its hopeful belief that understanding and concern for others really can make a difference.
It was a honor for me to have been able to read an advance copy of this creative and wonderfully-written story as its copyeditor, and I highly recommend it to both teenagers and adults for fantasy author and high school teacher Tahlia Newland’s interesting and inspiring approach to the issue of bullying – something people of all ages often experience at some point in their lives.
This fast-paced, short novel combines an extremely original mix of real life difficult situations and magical elements sprung from the imaginations of main characters Carly and Dylan, as they envision ways to overcome everyday challenges, problems and obstacles. I loved the dual perspective of the two main characters and their individual voices as they faced issues all young people struggle with, and their personalities shined through in both their daily lives and relationships and through the inventive analogies constructed by their minds while they worked out their own special roles in the story they choose to make of their lives. The wonderful messages of the novel, about learning compassion, recognizing the suffering in others and combatting hate with love are blended naturally into realistic situations and conversations to offer advice on how to deal with difficult and painful experiences in a positive way, while the sweet, blossoming romance between Carly and Dylan, based on respect and trust, gives a story that deals with the harsh reality of bullying a softer side and underscores its hopeful belief that understanding and concern for others really can make a difference.
It was a honor for me to have been able to read an advance copy of this creative and wonderfully-written story as its copyeditor, and I highly recommend it to both teenagers and adults for fantasy author and high school teacher Tahlia Newland’s interesting and inspiring approach to the issue of bullying – something people of all ages often experience at some point in their lives.
May 8, 2016
This short YA novel deals with a serious subject (bullying amongst high-school kids) and is imaginatively told from the perspectives of the two main characters, Carly and Dylan, with a unique blend of realism and fantastic elements which add to the overall power and imagery of the story. The reader is quickly pulled into the inner world of these two teenagers as they interfere with the activities of the school bully, Justin, only to become targeted by him themselves. But there is a far greater depth to the story than the tension provided by these encounters. Carly and Dylan must each face their own motivations, self-doubts and impulses, as well as the external threats, which appear to them as imaginary beasts or objects, while they themselves become knights or superheroes as they become conscious of 'writing their own script' of their lives and behavior. There is also a romance blossoming sweetly between them, starkly contrasted by the jibes of the bully Justin.
I enjoyed this book for the imaginative and evocative way the story was told, and felt pulled along with the inner struggles of the main characters, Carly, who was finding her inner strength and trying to help others, and Dylan, a black-belt karate expert who felt he had to protect Carly but knew that violence was not the best option.
Ultimately this is a story about understanding, kindness and compassion, uniquely told with surreal fantasy elements, and is both entertaining and thought-provoking for young adult readers. I'd like to read more from Tahlia.
I enjoyed this book for the imaginative and evocative way the story was told, and felt pulled along with the inner struggles of the main characters, Carly, who was finding her inner strength and trying to help others, and Dylan, a black-belt karate expert who felt he had to protect Carly but knew that violence was not the best option.
Ultimately this is a story about understanding, kindness and compassion, uniquely told with surreal fantasy elements, and is both entertaining and thought-provoking for young adult readers. I'd like to read more from Tahlia.
November 8, 2012
Sad and heartfelt, yet sweet and sassy….that’s the story of Carly, Dylan and Justin. One day in school, Carly sticks up for a young boy who is being bullied by Justin, defying Justin, standing her ground, and from that day, Justin makes Carly’s life a misery.
With Carly writing her life’s script, becoming a superhero is her dream….the magic and reality collide throughout this reasonably short story, with terror being a solid part of reality….with Dylan becoming a part of Carly’s life, the sweetness of first love comes across with all the nervousness that we remember. Dylan is a karate student, and wants to protect Carly….he’s also been called a nerd, more times than he can remember.
With help from Carly’s Aunt Anne and Uncle Doug, more magic transpires… there are many aspects to this story, bullying being the main one…but there are more, with love and sweetness, magic and dreams all making a play….
I can highly recommend this story by Tahlia Newland.
With Carly writing her life’s script, becoming a superhero is her dream….the magic and reality collide throughout this reasonably short story, with terror being a solid part of reality….with Dylan becoming a part of Carly’s life, the sweetness of first love comes across with all the nervousness that we remember. Dylan is a karate student, and wants to protect Carly….he’s also been called a nerd, more times than he can remember.
With help from Carly’s Aunt Anne and Uncle Doug, more magic transpires… there are many aspects to this story, bullying being the main one…but there are more, with love and sweetness, magic and dreams all making a play….
I can highly recommend this story by Tahlia Newland.
July 5, 2012
Review: You Can’t Shatter Me by Tahlia Newland (June 30, 2012)
By Katherine Ashe
Young Adult fiction is not my usual reading matter, in fact until these last two weeks (7/1/12) I had never read a YA book. But I've been asked to review a couple of books and I find that, judging from this little sampling, YA as a genre appears to have some considerable virtues, not the least of which is the wholesomeness and good will of the authors. This venture into YA has been for me quite a relief from the commercialized sex and violence in most current, trade-published historical novels.
Here's my view of Tahlia Newland's new book "You Can't Shatter Me."
Bullying is an act of repeated aggressive behavior in order to intentionally hurt another person, physically or mentally. So says Wikipedia, and it’s as good a definition as any. While the playground example is very familiar, bullying is not solely committed by children and teenagers, it finds many forms: in marriages, in business relations, in any relationship where one person or group attempts to dominate or discourage another. It can happen in the office or collegiate department, it can happen on line – in both meanings of the word: the internet or a waiting line at a store checkout. Bullying universally is detested and in sports, where the temptation may be the greatest, it is penalized.
Tahlia Newland looks at the subject in her book "You Can’t Shatter Me," about teenagers beset by a boy angry about his life and determined to vent his rage upon anyone within his reach. Newland’s approach is both practical and spiritual, the means she finds for withstanding and diverting the assaults is spiritual, the assaults themselves are described with down to earth explicitness that made this reader cringe and wonder where the teachers were who should have been keeping such things from occurring in a schoolroom. Yet I don’t doubt they do happen.
The realistic and other-worldly combine in Newland’s style as well. Her principal boy and girl are given to having vivid fantasies. My initial impression was that they were either having schizophrenic delusions or were high on a drug. But no, these ventures into the fantastic are an aspect of Newland’s writing style. Whether or not they seem convincing of the mental world of two otherwise realistically drawn teenagers, they are in themselves some of Newland’s most vivid writing. And where they occur they offer poignant insights into those passages.
Newland’s formula for rising above the trajectory of ill will and turning the attacker into a friend may work for a reader with a proclivity toward spiritual matters: meditation, yoga, etc. They may indeed find You Can’t Shatter Me helpful as well as entertaining.
Will kindness, generosity and what amounts to the Golden Rule always work? It depends upon the agenda of the bully. If he’s a lonely and unhappy boy it may, if he’s a colleague hoping to undermine you so you don’t get the promotion he wants, it may not and you’ll have to seek elsewhere for your counter-offensive. Nonetheless, Newland’s spiritual approach may help to keep you from sinking under the onslaught.
As for myself, I remember, when I was a teenager, seeing the self-proclaimed witch Sybil Leek on television advise that, when under attack, breath slowly, steadily and deeply. A bit of hyperventilation can be cheering and supportive of civilized response. One never knows what unexpected source a good piece of advice may come from.
Katherine Ashe
author of Montfort
http://wwwlongview.blogspot.com/2012/...
By Katherine Ashe
Young Adult fiction is not my usual reading matter, in fact until these last two weeks (7/1/12) I had never read a YA book. But I've been asked to review a couple of books and I find that, judging from this little sampling, YA as a genre appears to have some considerable virtues, not the least of which is the wholesomeness and good will of the authors. This venture into YA has been for me quite a relief from the commercialized sex and violence in most current, trade-published historical novels.
Here's my view of Tahlia Newland's new book "You Can't Shatter Me."
Bullying is an act of repeated aggressive behavior in order to intentionally hurt another person, physically or mentally. So says Wikipedia, and it’s as good a definition as any. While the playground example is very familiar, bullying is not solely committed by children and teenagers, it finds many forms: in marriages, in business relations, in any relationship where one person or group attempts to dominate or discourage another. It can happen in the office or collegiate department, it can happen on line – in both meanings of the word: the internet or a waiting line at a store checkout. Bullying universally is detested and in sports, where the temptation may be the greatest, it is penalized.
Tahlia Newland looks at the subject in her book "You Can’t Shatter Me," about teenagers beset by a boy angry about his life and determined to vent his rage upon anyone within his reach. Newland’s approach is both practical and spiritual, the means she finds for withstanding and diverting the assaults is spiritual, the assaults themselves are described with down to earth explicitness that made this reader cringe and wonder where the teachers were who should have been keeping such things from occurring in a schoolroom. Yet I don’t doubt they do happen.
The realistic and other-worldly combine in Newland’s style as well. Her principal boy and girl are given to having vivid fantasies. My initial impression was that they were either having schizophrenic delusions or were high on a drug. But no, these ventures into the fantastic are an aspect of Newland’s writing style. Whether or not they seem convincing of the mental world of two otherwise realistically drawn teenagers, they are in themselves some of Newland’s most vivid writing. And where they occur they offer poignant insights into those passages.
Newland’s formula for rising above the trajectory of ill will and turning the attacker into a friend may work for a reader with a proclivity toward spiritual matters: meditation, yoga, etc. They may indeed find You Can’t Shatter Me helpful as well as entertaining.
Will kindness, generosity and what amounts to the Golden Rule always work? It depends upon the agenda of the bully. If he’s a lonely and unhappy boy it may, if he’s a colleague hoping to undermine you so you don’t get the promotion he wants, it may not and you’ll have to seek elsewhere for your counter-offensive. Nonetheless, Newland’s spiritual approach may help to keep you from sinking under the onslaught.
As for myself, I remember, when I was a teenager, seeing the self-proclaimed witch Sybil Leek on television advise that, when under attack, breath slowly, steadily and deeply. A bit of hyperventilation can be cheering and supportive of civilized response. One never knows what unexpected source a good piece of advice may come from.
Katherine Ashe
author of Montfort
http://wwwlongview.blogspot.com/2012/...
July 6, 2012
"You Can't Shatter Me" is a moving young adult novel that grapples with the universal problem of bullying. A blend of magical realism and philosophy, it is at heart a very spiritual story without being heavy-handed about it.
Sixteen-year-old Carly Simmons, a girl with "insipid grey eyes, mousy hair and thunder thighs," daydreams about being a courageous, avenging superhero. Both she and the nerdy Dylan have both suffered at the hands of Justin, the school bully, and watched helplessly while he abused others.
Carly and Dylan share a love of art and a hatred of injustice--commonalities that nudge their friendship toward first love as they grapple with the problem of Justin. When Carly takes the initiative and stands up to him (a parallel to Dylan's standing up to a father who bullies him about his choice of art over engineering as a future career), she becomes the focus of his abuse.
But Newland reaches well beyond the act of bullying itself and the often devastating effect on its victims, examining not merely the complex reasons many kids don't report such incidents, but the reasons bullies choose to abuse others in this way.
With the help of her hippie grandparents, Carly learns how to rid herself of the fear that feeds the bully's need for attention, instead using the spiritual light inside her to disarm him--offering friendship to one who has himself always been abused and afraid, in hopes of helping him relate to others in a more healthy way.
Newland's characters are well drawn and realistic and the story emotionally satisfying, but for this reader the real joy of the novel is the author's structural vision and creative use of metaphor. Throughout the book, which alternates between Carly's and Dylan's perspectives, the problems they face take on actual physicality, becoming outsized physical objects that have to be vanquished superhero-style with the right attitude or action. In addition, the storyline is peppered with metaphors to writing, to the scripting and crafting of one's life being much like the creation of a story (which, of course, it is!)--sometimes even backing from the actual narrative so the characters can discuss the decisions involved in the scene they are trying to create.
With "You Can't Shatter Me," Newland has given the teen reader an accessible and engaging primer on ways to handle what, for many, is a devastating situation-one they often feel powerless to change. Parents should be advised that the story contains sexual innuendo and occasional rough language, so is perhaps not best suited to younger readers.
Sixteen-year-old Carly Simmons, a girl with "insipid grey eyes, mousy hair and thunder thighs," daydreams about being a courageous, avenging superhero. Both she and the nerdy Dylan have both suffered at the hands of Justin, the school bully, and watched helplessly while he abused others.
Carly and Dylan share a love of art and a hatred of injustice--commonalities that nudge their friendship toward first love as they grapple with the problem of Justin. When Carly takes the initiative and stands up to him (a parallel to Dylan's standing up to a father who bullies him about his choice of art over engineering as a future career), she becomes the focus of his abuse.
But Newland reaches well beyond the act of bullying itself and the often devastating effect on its victims, examining not merely the complex reasons many kids don't report such incidents, but the reasons bullies choose to abuse others in this way.
With the help of her hippie grandparents, Carly learns how to rid herself of the fear that feeds the bully's need for attention, instead using the spiritual light inside her to disarm him--offering friendship to one who has himself always been abused and afraid, in hopes of helping him relate to others in a more healthy way.
Newland's characters are well drawn and realistic and the story emotionally satisfying, but for this reader the real joy of the novel is the author's structural vision and creative use of metaphor. Throughout the book, which alternates between Carly's and Dylan's perspectives, the problems they face take on actual physicality, becoming outsized physical objects that have to be vanquished superhero-style with the right attitude or action. In addition, the storyline is peppered with metaphors to writing, to the scripting and crafting of one's life being much like the creation of a story (which, of course, it is!)--sometimes even backing from the actual narrative so the characters can discuss the decisions involved in the scene they are trying to create.
With "You Can't Shatter Me," Newland has given the teen reader an accessible and engaging primer on ways to handle what, for many, is a devastating situation-one they often feel powerless to change. Parents should be advised that the story contains sexual innuendo and occasional rough language, so is perhaps not best suited to younger readers.
September 1, 2012
originally posted on my blog, How I see it
You can't shatter me was a truly revolutionary book for me, because it was all so true. I recognised myself in Carly. I could easily imagine myself in this story, or her being my twin sister. The book was not like any other book I have ever read. Yes, it was about bullying, but not about how miserable it made people feel, but about how to stop the bullies, and how to understand them. And that's the best thing about the book.
Carly is just a plain normal girl, until she starts to date Dylan, the cute nerdy boy, and gets bullied by Justin. Justin is the stereotype bully, only worse than most. Carly tries to stop the bully, not with hate, but with love and compassion. Because hate can't be cured with hate, only with love.
Carly was a very strong kick-butt character, very likeable and full of love for every single soul. I could easily relate to her, because I was bullied, too. It was a long time ago, but reading this book reminded me a lot of that time. I wasn't bullied very much, but it really had an enormous impact on my life. I was not as strong as Carly was, and started to hide the real me. Only just a year ago I started to take off those covers, and show the world the real me. I really admire Carly for feeling compassion for the bully, because I still am not capable of feeling that way,and it was years ago. I really feel like this book has helped me take a step to really put it behind me.
The plot of this book was interesting, and full of knowledge that will be useful for the rest of my life. The romance was very cute and so realistic. Most contemporary books have this 'normal girl starts dating school hottie' scenario, which really is not so interesting after reading a gazillion books with exactely the same pattern of events. I love to see something new, and this book definitely was new and unique. The writing style was easy to read, I just was floating through the book.
I feel like this book could really help people with their lives, and that they won't even percieve that they're actually learning something because of the cute story that covers it up. I think it would solve a lot of problems on high- and middleschools if everyone read this. A book definitely worth 5 stars!
You can't shatter me was a truly revolutionary book for me, because it was all so true. I recognised myself in Carly. I could easily imagine myself in this story, or her being my twin sister. The book was not like any other book I have ever read. Yes, it was about bullying, but not about how miserable it made people feel, but about how to stop the bullies, and how to understand them. And that's the best thing about the book.
Carly is just a plain normal girl, until she starts to date Dylan, the cute nerdy boy, and gets bullied by Justin. Justin is the stereotype bully, only worse than most. Carly tries to stop the bully, not with hate, but with love and compassion. Because hate can't be cured with hate, only with love.
Carly was a very strong kick-butt character, very likeable and full of love for every single soul. I could easily relate to her, because I was bullied, too. It was a long time ago, but reading this book reminded me a lot of that time. I wasn't bullied very much, but it really had an enormous impact on my life. I was not as strong as Carly was, and started to hide the real me. Only just a year ago I started to take off those covers, and show the world the real me. I really admire Carly for feeling compassion for the bully, because I still am not capable of feeling that way,and it was years ago. I really feel like this book has helped me take a step to really put it behind me.
The plot of this book was interesting, and full of knowledge that will be useful for the rest of my life. The romance was very cute and so realistic. Most contemporary books have this 'normal girl starts dating school hottie' scenario, which really is not so interesting after reading a gazillion books with exactely the same pattern of events. I love to see something new, and this book definitely was new and unique. The writing style was easy to read, I just was floating through the book.
I feel like this book could really help people with their lives, and that they won't even percieve that they're actually learning something because of the cute story that covers it up. I think it would solve a lot of problems on high- and middleschools if everyone read this. A book definitely worth 5 stars!
July 4, 2012
You Can't Shatter Me is a story about bullying. A young girl witnesses a "misfit" being bullied, and suddenly not able to watch this one more time with no one intervening steps in. Which of course bring the focus onto her. At the same time, another student, who has been watching her from afar, steps in to protect her...Now they are both under fire from the bully.
Carly and Dylan are now targeted by this bully, a very angry young man named Justin. The story deals with the beginnings of a relationship and how the two finally end up dealing with this bully in unexpected ways along with empowering a few other people.
Newland used a lot of imagery - in the form of very fantastical imagination on the part of the characters. The things they imagined - reminded me of a film with .... Well, I could totally picture this as a short movie, with their imaginings shown in animation. While at first I was a bit confused (being a reader of mostly urban fantasy or fantasy I thought at first these imaginings were really going on - maybe they were) I soon came to believe that the kids were using their very strong imagery to cope and come to decisions.
But not only is the bully cast as a bully - his own demons are shown. The kid not only has a drunk dad, but deals with abuse as well, causing him to be angry and pass it on. But then, usually a bully is someone who is so angry at their circumstances that they "pass it on" to others.
The narration was interesting- uniquely done. The kids sounded like kids when they spoke to each other. The bullying situations are completely believable. And I enjoyed Carly's unique way of disarming Justin, though I wonder how well that would work with some of the most shut off predators. Anyway, it's hopeful that some young people will read more of these type of novels and take heart that there are solutions that don't rely on violence. Sometimes it IS as simple as showing a confidence even if you don't feel confident. Fake it until you make it.
It would be great if books like this were made required reading in schools.
Carly and Dylan are now targeted by this bully, a very angry young man named Justin. The story deals with the beginnings of a relationship and how the two finally end up dealing with this bully in unexpected ways along with empowering a few other people.
Newland used a lot of imagery - in the form of very fantastical imagination on the part of the characters. The things they imagined - reminded me of a film with .... Well, I could totally picture this as a short movie, with their imaginings shown in animation. While at first I was a bit confused (being a reader of mostly urban fantasy or fantasy I thought at first these imaginings were really going on - maybe they were) I soon came to believe that the kids were using their very strong imagery to cope and come to decisions.
But not only is the bully cast as a bully - his own demons are shown. The kid not only has a drunk dad, but deals with abuse as well, causing him to be angry and pass it on. But then, usually a bully is someone who is so angry at their circumstances that they "pass it on" to others.
The narration was interesting- uniquely done. The kids sounded like kids when they spoke to each other. The bullying situations are completely believable. And I enjoyed Carly's unique way of disarming Justin, though I wonder how well that would work with some of the most shut off predators. Anyway, it's hopeful that some young people will read more of these type of novels and take heart that there are solutions that don't rely on violence. Sometimes it IS as simple as showing a confidence even if you don't feel confident. Fake it until you make it.
It would be great if books like this were made required reading in schools.
January 12, 2015
The subject of bullying is one that definitely deserves to be addressed. I am happy to see that lately it has taken more of a center stage. Teens especially should be aware of how devastating the effects of bullying can be. In You Can't Shatter Me, author Tahlia Newland embraces this topic and delivers it in an imaginative yet informative way. In my opinion, this is a book that all young adults should read. It is also a great book for parents and educators who may need a fresh look into teen struggles and bullying. The main character Carly has big dreams and the reader will be quickly swept up in her story. In short this book is a coming of age novel, but I feel it also goes deeper than that. This story tells about the power of friendship and how supporting one another is priceless. It also deals with finding your inner strength. Carly is a constant reminder that everyone has a power, the power to write their own life. That sentence is one I will be reminding myself of often. I loved Dylan's character! He is sweet and smart, two of the best qualities to have. There is one part in the story where Dylan is figuratively and literally battling words in his room. Words like, angst and anger. I thought this was such a great peek into how many people feel. I know I have. When he finally cuts down the last word he feels relieved and some what stronger. His relationship with Carly made me smile. They are able to help and support each other while also growing as individuals. Both of them find their strength and figure out how to cope with what life brings.
Tahlia does a brilliant job making an other wise tedious topic fun and relatable for readers. This book will make you think and really reflect on the subject at hand. The writing style was enjoyable and fluid. Although short in length, this book contains a powerful message and the author manages to drive this message home without over doing it. You are left feeling complete and some what light. I would definitely recommend giving this story a read!
Tahlia does a brilliant job making an other wise tedious topic fun and relatable for readers. This book will make you think and really reflect on the subject at hand. The writing style was enjoyable and fluid. Although short in length, this book contains a powerful message and the author manages to drive this message home without over doing it. You are left feeling complete and some what light. I would definitely recommend giving this story a read!
August 5, 2012
In this little novella, the reader follows Carly and Dylan through an epic journey of good vs. evil, handwritten scripts and the thought that life can be written the way a person wants it to be written.
Ever since I first picked up a book, I've thought changing point of views were a really awesome way of conveying a story. Whether it be changing points of view in third-person or it be changing points of view in first person, I liked the idea that a reader could see into the thoughts of multiple characters in the story instead of one. It really suited this novella very nicely. Looking through Carly's eyes as well as Dylan's helped make the world that they were living in.
I enjoyed the fact that it was edited "according to Australian conventions" and that it took place in Australia. My best friend is from Australia so I was able to connect some things together from her first trip over there this summer. It was different and I really enjoyed it.
Also--note to the author if you do read this-- thank you for putting the glossary of words in the front. It really helped me understand some of the lingo.
The only problem point that I would have for this whole thing is the areas that were meant to be symbolic. I understood them, and I get them. I liked them very much. Then they stretched over the chapters and it started losing that feeling on me. I feel like they took too much away from the situation as they stretched out. What started as words attacking turned into a battle with a sword. I understood it, but it could have been shortened just a teensy bit.
Overall, I loved the story, the plot, and the message it gave out. The characters were strong and readers could really relate to them. I liked the moments of "writing" that Carly had and the moments of "script editing" that Dylan had. It all made the story and I really liked it.
See this post on The Guide to Good Books
Ever since I first picked up a book, I've thought changing point of views were a really awesome way of conveying a story. Whether it be changing points of view in third-person or it be changing points of view in first person, I liked the idea that a reader could see into the thoughts of multiple characters in the story instead of one. It really suited this novella very nicely. Looking through Carly's eyes as well as Dylan's helped make the world that they were living in.
I enjoyed the fact that it was edited "according to Australian conventions" and that it took place in Australia. My best friend is from Australia so I was able to connect some things together from her first trip over there this summer. It was different and I really enjoyed it.
Also--note to the author if you do read this-- thank you for putting the glossary of words in the front. It really helped me understand some of the lingo.
The only problem point that I would have for this whole thing is the areas that were meant to be symbolic. I understood them, and I get them. I liked them very much. Then they stretched over the chapters and it started losing that feeling on me. I feel like they took too much away from the situation as they stretched out. What started as words attacking turned into a battle with a sword. I understood it, but it could have been shortened just a teensy bit.
Overall, I loved the story, the plot, and the message it gave out. The characters were strong and readers could really relate to them. I liked the moments of "writing" that Carly had and the moments of "script editing" that Dylan had. It all made the story and I really liked it.
See this post on The Guide to Good Books
September 4, 2012
Carly is a spunky sixteen years old and in the face of standing up to a bully, she puts herself in his path. While standing up to the bully she is asked out by Dylan, the smart nerd. She sees him in a different light and agrees. The bully harasses her throughout the book while she tries to live with it and forgive him for how he is because she realizes he has a bad home life. She tries all sorts of different things to stop the bullying, but the more she turns the other cheek, the more he bully’s her, going so far as trapping her in the woods with ill intentions. She tries to rewrite her own story the whole book, even trying mediatation and the power of love to change the bully. She also takes a look at the other kids who have been bullied their whole lives, and tries to help them stand up straighter.
Using magical realism, the author takes you on a strange ride with older teenagers that seem to have overactive imaginations. The story was good and I loved that it took a look at real life problems. Most kids have to deal with being bullied and it can be a very painful and confidence shattering part of life. I do think that the story would have worked better with if the characters were younger as I cannot imagine sixteen year old acting like the ones in the book. Regardless of that, the magical realism takes real world problems and combines them with the extraordinary to bring them from being hard to deal with, to making kids believe they can be superheroes. I would let my children read the book if they were having problems with a bully. I also enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. They really made the book. I give this book 4 stars.
www.cynthiashepp.wordpress.com
Using magical realism, the author takes you on a strange ride with older teenagers that seem to have overactive imaginations. The story was good and I loved that it took a look at real life problems. Most kids have to deal with being bullied and it can be a very painful and confidence shattering part of life. I do think that the story would have worked better with if the characters were younger as I cannot imagine sixteen year old acting like the ones in the book. Regardless of that, the magical realism takes real world problems and combines them with the extraordinary to bring them from being hard to deal with, to making kids believe they can be superheroes. I would let my children read the book if they were having problems with a bully. I also enjoyed the quotes at the beginning of each chapter. They really made the book. I give this book 4 stars.
www.cynthiashepp.wordpress.com
August 12, 2012
I’m turning 42 on Friday, but I still love young adult (YA) fiction. In fact, I firmly believe that YA offers some of the most empowering stories and empowered female characters available in modern literature. I also believe that Tahlia Newland’s fiction is some of the best YA on the market, so when she asked if I’d read and review You Can’t Shatter Me, of course I said yes.
I was not disappointed.
In fact, I was awed.
Newland refers to this story as an example of magical realism, and it is. Sixteen-year-old Carly imagines herself a green lycra-clad superhero, flying from her bedroom window to mete out justice to bullied kids in her school, and uses her vivid imagination to visualize personal problems as doubt dragons to be slayed, while dealing with the very real torment of being the target of a bully herself.
Dylan also uses his imagination in powerful ways, seeing words as tangible objects that can harm or heal, and learning to conquer the former and boost the latter.
Both teens recognize that at some point each of us has to take a stand and become the writers of our own scripts, the authors of our own futures, and the breakers of our own paths.
Newland excels at weaving meditation techniques, including guided imagery, into the narrative without making it seem forced. Instead, she gives Carly an aunt who is part aging hippie/part guru, and who teaches her niece how she can make herself emotionally strong by sending love and light to the universe – even to people who mistreat her.
While You Can’t Shatter Me could have been a preachy diatribe against bullying, in Newland’s deft hands, this novel is an absorbing, educational read, that both satisfies and gives hope to adults and younger readers alike.
Goes well with a picnic lunch on the beach.
I was not disappointed.
In fact, I was awed.
Newland refers to this story as an example of magical realism, and it is. Sixteen-year-old Carly imagines herself a green lycra-clad superhero, flying from her bedroom window to mete out justice to bullied kids in her school, and uses her vivid imagination to visualize personal problems as doubt dragons to be slayed, while dealing with the very real torment of being the target of a bully herself.
Dylan also uses his imagination in powerful ways, seeing words as tangible objects that can harm or heal, and learning to conquer the former and boost the latter.
Both teens recognize that at some point each of us has to take a stand and become the writers of our own scripts, the authors of our own futures, and the breakers of our own paths.
Newland excels at weaving meditation techniques, including guided imagery, into the narrative without making it seem forced. Instead, she gives Carly an aunt who is part aging hippie/part guru, and who teaches her niece how she can make herself emotionally strong by sending love and light to the universe – even to people who mistreat her.
While You Can’t Shatter Me could have been a preachy diatribe against bullying, in Newland’s deft hands, this novel is an absorbing, educational read, that both satisfies and gives hope to adults and younger readers alike.
Goes well with a picnic lunch on the beach.
July 10, 2012
This book is well-written and engaging – but it's also brave, because it addresses a tough subject while other YA books are content to pursue vampire romance and zombie infestations. Don't get me wrong, those topics are fun. But if someone is bullying you, Edward isn't going to show up to toss the bully's tookus across the schoolyard, and the chances of getting bitten by a radioactive spider and developing superpowers are pretty slim. You need good advice.
I'm impressed by Tahlia's use of Zen Buddhism as a way to find the inner harmony you need to deal with the psychological abuse that's the worst part of bullying. People who abuse others don't just want to hurt them physically – that's frosting on the cake. They're really engaged in psychological warfare, in order to gain power over people.
I like her idea that you don't have to be passive about what kind of life you're going to lead. You can write yourself. Who do you want your character to be? What do you have to do to become that person? That, along with Tahlia's message that you don't have to accept being a victim, makes this a book worth reading. And for those of you who prefer romance – theres plenty of that too. If you've ever been bullied (and who hasn't?), give this book a try. It could change your perspective.
I'm impressed by Tahlia's use of Zen Buddhism as a way to find the inner harmony you need to deal with the psychological abuse that's the worst part of bullying. People who abuse others don't just want to hurt them physically – that's frosting on the cake. They're really engaged in psychological warfare, in order to gain power over people.
I like her idea that you don't have to be passive about what kind of life you're going to lead. You can write yourself. Who do you want your character to be? What do you have to do to become that person? That, along with Tahlia's message that you don't have to accept being a victim, makes this a book worth reading. And for those of you who prefer romance – theres plenty of that too. If you've ever been bullied (and who hasn't?), give this book a try. It could change your perspective.
December 27, 2012
I thoroughly enjoyed this short novel by Tahlia Newland to the extend I chose to read it twice - and got even more from it second time around. On the surface this is a story about high school teens - boy and girl becoming aware of one another, while outside that is the constant threat of bullying by an unhappy individual who knows no other way to escape his own, very real demon in the form of an abusive parent.
The way the story is written, with a strong magic realism aspect to it and emphatic underlying messages on morality: love, forgiveness, compassion and understanding, are a real treat, showing the force of faith in oneself and in others who may appear to be beyond redemption.
The writing is excellent, the dialogue natural, the settings totally appropriate for a story aimed at high school children. The thrust of the book is clear, the characters engaging and the story has a strong structure. It is exactly the sort of story schools should use to teach about the various aspects of bullying; how not only the victim but the bully can be helped and how it is so very important to look below the surface for the bully's motivation.
Overall, a charming story about love and redemption that will appeal to more perceptive children of high school age and could be used to teach those somewhat less perceptive.
The way the story is written, with a strong magic realism aspect to it and emphatic underlying messages on morality: love, forgiveness, compassion and understanding, are a real treat, showing the force of faith in oneself and in others who may appear to be beyond redemption.
The writing is excellent, the dialogue natural, the settings totally appropriate for a story aimed at high school children. The thrust of the book is clear, the characters engaging and the story has a strong structure. It is exactly the sort of story schools should use to teach about the various aspects of bullying; how not only the victim but the bully can be helped and how it is so very important to look below the surface for the bully's motivation.
Overall, a charming story about love and redemption that will appeal to more perceptive children of high school age and could be used to teach those somewhat less perceptive.
June 23, 2012
What would you do about a bully? When Carly is faced with a harassing boy named Justin, will she be the superhero she wants to be, or will she wilt before his tyranny? She has in her favor a new hairdo, a wild imagination, a supporter named Dylan with surprises behind his nerdy exterior, and people around her who care about her and encourage her to take the high road. Sometimes the high road seems pretty darn high.
Tahlia has woven a tale of high imagination with You Can't Shatter Me. Though the plot is all too real and the characters live in a regular world, their flights of fantasy carry us with them into amazing places. Emotions become man-eating plants and fire-breathing dragons. Wishes for courage turn into superhero suits. Is it all just imagination, or does it have an effect on the real world?
I love Tahlia's snappy writing and fantastic imagination. You can't ever predict what is going to happen in her books, because reality doesn't necessarily apply. A regular tale about bullying becomes a whole new world in her hands. A story that might bore me because it doesn't apply to my life, suddenly becomes fascinating because of the amazing way she spins it. Due to mild swearing and some threatening language, I wouldn't recommend this book for younger readers. You Can't Shatter Me is an excellent story for teens facing bullying situations, or for anyone who enjoys fantasy.
Tahlia has woven a tale of high imagination with You Can't Shatter Me. Though the plot is all too real and the characters live in a regular world, their flights of fantasy carry us with them into amazing places. Emotions become man-eating plants and fire-breathing dragons. Wishes for courage turn into superhero suits. Is it all just imagination, or does it have an effect on the real world?
I love Tahlia's snappy writing and fantastic imagination. You can't ever predict what is going to happen in her books, because reality doesn't necessarily apply. A regular tale about bullying becomes a whole new world in her hands. A story that might bore me because it doesn't apply to my life, suddenly becomes fascinating because of the amazing way she spins it. Due to mild swearing and some threatening language, I wouldn't recommend this book for younger readers. You Can't Shatter Me is an excellent story for teens facing bullying situations, or for anyone who enjoys fantasy.
August 30, 2012
Focusing on the very real psychological traumas of teenage bullying, “You Can’t Shatter Me” is one that aught to be compulsory reading in all Middle Schools.(Schools who teach 12 yr olds to 16 year olds) Author Tahlia Newman is no stranger to the young adult genre, having several acclaimed titles published. She brings a mature warmth to this subject area, without being overly preachy or stilted. Readers will be enchanted with the character and storyline within moments of beginning their journey with Carly.
Sixteen year old Carly struggles with her identity, desperate to become a real life superhero. Her carefully planned strategies go awry when she stands up to a bully, only for them to make things extremely unpleasant for her. Throw in a nerdy, but likeable admirer, a compellingly wise elder and Carly is set for a bumpy self discovery journey where she must question her true beliefs before her best friend risks everything to confront the bully on her behalf.
This story will prove an empowering experience for all who read it. Whilst aimed at the younger reader, Tahlia’s writing style does not patronise and ensures that there are talking points for parents, teachers and children who are affected by the bullying issue. Its an easy read, but one which will pose questions in the behaviours you observe within your workplace and family relationships.
Sixteen year old Carly struggles with her identity, desperate to become a real life superhero. Her carefully planned strategies go awry when she stands up to a bully, only for them to make things extremely unpleasant for her. Throw in a nerdy, but likeable admirer, a compellingly wise elder and Carly is set for a bumpy self discovery journey where she must question her true beliefs before her best friend risks everything to confront the bully on her behalf.
This story will prove an empowering experience for all who read it. Whilst aimed at the younger reader, Tahlia’s writing style does not patronise and ensures that there are talking points for parents, teachers and children who are affected by the bullying issue. Its an easy read, but one which will pose questions in the behaviours you observe within your workplace and family relationships.
September 4, 2012
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I think everyone now a days is aware of the problem of bullying. I think everyone has at least one experience with bullying, be it being the victim, the person doing the bullying, or the person standing on the sidelines observing it. There has been a lot of talk about this issue, and a lot of different ideas about how to teach kids and teenagers about this problem. This is a book geared toward young adults, and it fits the bill.
Carly is that brave girl who decides to take a chance, do the right thing, and stand up to a bully. Of course it doesn't end up all roses for Carly, which I personally believe is one of the reasons why kids don't stand up to bullies (or even adults sometimes). Carly and Dylan grow close while trying to conquer their own individuals problems while helping each other.
One thing that is good about this book as that it examines the situation, the dynamic between all the individuals, from different perspectives. You get an insight into everyone, even the bully. Newland paints a picture of what it is like for everyone. This is a pretty good take on the issue, while still being a fun read for the young adult crowd.
I think everyone now a days is aware of the problem of bullying. I think everyone has at least one experience with bullying, be it being the victim, the person doing the bullying, or the person standing on the sidelines observing it. There has been a lot of talk about this issue, and a lot of different ideas about how to teach kids and teenagers about this problem. This is a book geared toward young adults, and it fits the bill.
Carly is that brave girl who decides to take a chance, do the right thing, and stand up to a bully. Of course it doesn't end up all roses for Carly, which I personally believe is one of the reasons why kids don't stand up to bullies (or even adults sometimes). Carly and Dylan grow close while trying to conquer their own individuals problems while helping each other.
One thing that is good about this book as that it examines the situation, the dynamic between all the individuals, from different perspectives. You get an insight into everyone, even the bully. Newland paints a picture of what it is like for everyone. This is a pretty good take on the issue, while still being a fun read for the young adult crowd.
October 4, 2014
Tahlia Newland's You Can't Shatter Me is an affirmation of positive thinking and healing through meditation. It's a book that belongs on any young reader's, parent's and teacher's must-read list. Bullying is a great concern for any parent who has a child in the school system whether it be at the elementary or high school level. Newland depicts a heart-wrenching picture of the cruelty and humiliation experienced by the victims of bullying.
The characters are well fleshed out and memorable. Carly, a feisty teenager, wants to create her own life story and is determined to be courageous and be a savior of the underdog. Dylan, her new nerd boyfriend who knows how to fight, discovers through Carly's admonition that he can also be a bully. Justin's bullying power is severely challenged by Carly's self-love approach.
The Symbolism of the Magical Elements addition at the end of the book makes it easy to understand Carly and Dylan's different shifts in perception throughout the story. Magic realist elements are used to further the plot or present the different themes.
This is certainly a book to be read and discussed in all classrooms; a most enjoyable read and a keeper on my bookshelf.
The characters are well fleshed out and memorable. Carly, a feisty teenager, wants to create her own life story and is determined to be courageous and be a savior of the underdog. Dylan, her new nerd boyfriend who knows how to fight, discovers through Carly's admonition that he can also be a bully. Justin's bullying power is severely challenged by Carly's self-love approach.
The Symbolism of the Magical Elements addition at the end of the book makes it easy to understand Carly and Dylan's different shifts in perception throughout the story. Magic realist elements are used to further the plot or present the different themes.
This is certainly a book to be read and discussed in all classrooms; a most enjoyable read and a keeper on my bookshelf.
October 1, 2015
Even though the book is captivating and well written, I am a bit of a doubter for parts of it. Carly stands up to the school bully which leads to two main after effects. One, now the bully will try to make her life miserable. Two, a brainy guy, the school likeable nerd, connects with her after the superhero rescue and thus starts their relationship. He would like to take on the bully, but this could jeopardize his position in the college as well as his position with his father! Carly thinks they should try a completely different approach with Justin, the bully.
Sorry, but it bothered me that they did not report the bully's actions. Maybe that is realistic, but not where I work. The resolution seems to happen quickly and unrealistically. Love must be given to those who do wrong, but they must also have consequences for their action. I fear this book could lead teens to allow bullies to continue in their ways thinking their good endeavors may change them. That may not be true and a multitude of problems could be the end result.
I received this book from the publisher through Net Galley.
Sorry, but it bothered me that they did not report the bully's actions. Maybe that is realistic, but not where I work. The resolution seems to happen quickly and unrealistically. Love must be given to those who do wrong, but they must also have consequences for their action. I fear this book could lead teens to allow bullies to continue in their ways thinking their good endeavors may change them. That may not be true and a multitude of problems could be the end result.
I received this book from the publisher through Net Galley.
August 6, 2012
3.5 Stars
This was a great story about Bullying. There was mulit-point-of-view which was fine. Extremly well written. Great capture of narrative voice and well-developed characters.
The reason why I took 1.5 stars away is because for me I believe the book was more in between two genres--fantasy and contemporary. This book is in the Magical Realism genre.
I would have liked it to be fully fantasy, which is more of a personal choice. I also would have enjoyed it more if it was more adult... but this is YA so dugggh, lol.
Either way, if you are looking for a clean novella that provides a great lesson then this is the book for you.
This was a great story about Bullying. There was mulit-point-of-view which was fine. Extremly well written. Great capture of narrative voice and well-developed characters.
The reason why I took 1.5 stars away is because for me I believe the book was more in between two genres--fantasy and contemporary. This book is in the Magical Realism genre.
I would have liked it to be fully fantasy, which is more of a personal choice. I also would have enjoyed it more if it was more adult... but this is YA so dugggh, lol.
Either way, if you are looking for a clean novella that provides a great lesson then this is the book for you.
June 8, 2012
This book is both sweet and gritty. The story is a real situation that we can all relate to, but I've given it a magical twist, one that I hope will give the inspiration and confidence to change the way we handle bullying, whether we are the victim, the bully or the bystander. I hope you enjoy it and that it becomes a positive force for solving the bullying issue.
June 3, 2013
While there was some woo woo stuff that I don't necessarily get behind, this was, overall, a good book with some very helpful ways of dealing with bullies.
Also, I really enjoyed the more fantastical aspects of the book.
Also, I really enjoyed the more fantastical aspects of the book.
December 1, 2021
AIBA Book of the Day: 1 December, 2021: 002/41472
Awesome Indies Book Awards is pleased to include YOU CAN’T SHATTER ME by TAHLIA NEWLAND in the library of Awesome Indies' Seal of Excellence recipients.
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