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Breakfast with Neruda
Michael Flynn is just trying to get through his community service after he made the dumb decision to try to blow up his friend's car with fireworks--the same friend who stole Michael's girl. Being expelled and losing his best buddy and his girlfriend are the least of his problems: Michael has learned to hide everything, from his sick hoarder mother to the fact that he's stuck living in a 1982 Ford LTD station wagon he calls the Blue Whale. Then one day, during mandatory community service, he meets Shelly, a girl with a past, who's also special enough to unmask Michael's deepest secrets. Can he manage to be worthy of her love, a guy living in a car, unable to return to his chaotic and fit-to-be-condemned home? Shelly won't give up, and tries to peel back the layers of garbage and pain to reveal Michael's immense heart.
256 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 16, 2016
7 people are currently reading
851 people want to read
About the author
Laura Moe
4 books22 followersFormer librarian and teacher, Laura Moe now writes full-time. she is the author of BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA (Simon & Schuster/Merit Press, 2016) She is also the author of BLUE VALENTINES and THE LANGUAGE OF THE SON.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
January 16, 2016
This is a gem of a book that really should have a more eye-catching (read inviting to young adult eyes) cover. On the first day of mandatory community service, Michael meets Shelly an intriguing force. But Michael doesn't have time for intriguing forces in his life. He is just trying to survive the mess of his life. He's going to be a fifth-year senior (after an unfortunate incident at school); he lives in his ancient car; he's focused on daily survival and keeping the authorities from knowing that his mom is a hoarder. Michael has his coping mechanisms down pat - he knows how to forage for food from dumpsters, take showers in rest stops sinks, get cologne samples from magazines, and not be too bitter about his circumstances in life. As the days in community service go along, Michael learns that Shelly has secrets too and they form an unlikely friendship. Michael shows a lot of strength for an 18 year old - far beyond his years. While many in his situation won't get the happy ending Michael gets; it's nice to think there is relief for some kids who have such difficult lives.
June 5, 2016
Michael Flynn's life has become pretty atypical for a high school student. Due to his mother's hoarding problem, he has lived in his car for the past few months. And then there was an incident involving his now former best friend that went sideways, so he has to work off community service in the summer at his high school. That he was expelled from. And where he has to repeat his senior year.
While cleaning out lockers with Earl, the cantankerous custodian, he learns that he isn't the only one who has to scrape gum and fix leaking toilets this summer at Rooster High. Mysterious Shelly is his fellow detainee, but she's not very forthcoming with the reason she is there. They immediately form a bond, each one well aware that though there is a lot more their stories, they've got all summer to tell them.
Michael can't fix his mother, but maybe if he knew more about her past, that would at least give him some idea of what she's struggling with - and who his father is. He's always felt like he was missing something, so when he finds his mother's high school journal, he hopes he can find out the truth.
Ripped from today's headlines!
I've always wanted to say that. And while it's true, this story is low-key, non-sensational and real. it's people with real problems letting down their guard and discovering that sometimes you need to let people help you - and that's OK.
Now I need to read some Neruda.
Breakfast with Neruda by Laura Moe was published May 16, 2016 by Merit Press. A free copy of this book was given to Ink and Page in return for an honest review. Big thanks to the Publisher and the Author.
Rating: 4
Genre: Young Adult Realistic Contemporary Fiction Romance
Ages: 13 and up
While cleaning out lockers with Earl, the cantankerous custodian, he learns that he isn't the only one who has to scrape gum and fix leaking toilets this summer at Rooster High. Mysterious Shelly is his fellow detainee, but she's not very forthcoming with the reason she is there. They immediately form a bond, each one well aware that though there is a lot more their stories, they've got all summer to tell them.
Michael can't fix his mother, but maybe if he knew more about her past, that would at least give him some idea of what she's struggling with - and who his father is. He's always felt like he was missing something, so when he finds his mother's high school journal, he hopes he can find out the truth.
Ripped from today's headlines!
I've always wanted to say that. And while it's true, this story is low-key, non-sensational and real. it's people with real problems letting down their guard and discovering that sometimes you need to let people help you - and that's OK.
Now I need to read some Neruda.
Breakfast with Neruda by Laura Moe was published May 16, 2016 by Merit Press. A free copy of this book was given to Ink and Page in return for an honest review. Big thanks to the Publisher and the Author.
Rating: 4
Genre: Young Adult Realistic Contemporary Fiction Romance
Ages: 13 and up
February 22, 2019
Quirky, heartbreaking, and ultimately uplifting, this YA book is one both teen and adult readers will fall in love with.
May 9, 2018
I enjoyed Breakfast with Neruda a lot and thought that the storyline was very interesting. However, I was a bit disappointed when one of the main mysteries in the book, (Who Michael's father was) was never unveiled in the end, because I personally was very intrigued to find out. I'm giving this book 3 stars because, in the beginning, half of the story, I wasn't very hooked by the plot and if it had been more interesting, I would've been much more excited to read it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 16, 2017
BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA is a story of two young adults dealing with issues of homelessness, building relationships, trust, and blended families. Laura Moe weaves her storyline around the two teenagers from two different social and economic lifestyles. The author introduces Michael Flynn providing her readers some details of his backstory such as his secrets of where is living and his lack of funds. The storyline moves forward, increasing the intrigue of both Michael and Shelly’s connections, as events unfold at the high school. Moe introduces Michelle Miller (Shelly) who is also performing community service at the high school. Shelly keeps her troubles to herself and is aware the dark cloud of rumors and innuendo creating a mystery about her troubles.
Readers see Michael and Shelly developing a friendship regardless of the social and economic differences in their lives. Both find common ground to build their friendship learning to enjoy each other’s company regardless of the secrets in both their pasts. When Shelly finds out Michael is living in his car on the school parking lot and Michael hears a rumor about Shelly’s tainted past, they both learn to accept and not judge each other. Throughout the storyline, Moe explores social issues such low income, mental health, and homelessness. Shelly convinces Michael to begin searching for the identity of his father.
Moe helps her readers see issues of a blended family such as a spouse not welcoming a stepchild. The more time Michael and Shelly spend together their relationship grows beyond friendship, and they begin to share secrets of their past. BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA creates a lifeline of trust for Michael and Shelly as readers finish the story to find out how things turn out. Laura Moe’s BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA is must read and earns a five-star ranking.
Readers see Michael and Shelly developing a friendship regardless of the social and economic differences in their lives. Both find common ground to build their friendship learning to enjoy each other’s company regardless of the secrets in both their pasts. When Shelly finds out Michael is living in his car on the school parking lot and Michael hears a rumor about Shelly’s tainted past, they both learn to accept and not judge each other. Throughout the storyline, Moe explores social issues such low income, mental health, and homelessness. Shelly convinces Michael to begin searching for the identity of his father.
Moe helps her readers see issues of a blended family such as a spouse not welcoming a stepchild. The more time Michael and Shelly spend together their relationship grows beyond friendship, and they begin to share secrets of their past. BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA creates a lifeline of trust for Michael and Shelly as readers finish the story to find out how things turn out. Laura Moe’s BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA is must read and earns a five-star ranking.
October 18, 2016
Actual rating: 3.5 stars
*This review can also be found at The Reader and the Chef. Huge thanks to the publisher for providing me a copy so I could give it my honest opinion.*
I lost count of the number of times that I've written and re-written this review and not being satisfied with what my fingers are typing. This book... I feel that this book deserves a lot more than what I'm going to say since it has such a great story inside and I know it will strike some chords and possibly inspire more than a few people out there. I have to admit this book wasn't the perfect read, it was slow at times and I wish to not have such a loose ending, but it's still enjoyable and I believe worth your time. So here are a few simple thoughts about this book:
As the blurb says, Breakfast with Neruda is about a boy who is stuck doing community service at his High School during summertime after trying to get back at his best friend who stole his girlfriend. In there he meets fellow misfit Shelly who quickly learns some of his deepest secrets--how he lives in his car (though not the why to his relief), how he usually dives into restaurant dumpsters to grab a bite (they are not that bad!), and how he wishes to at least know who his father is (is he is still alive).
I don't think I will ever be able to 100% relate to Michael's unusual living conditions (and his life), but while I was reading his story, I started to imagine how it would be living that way, as far as going outside and sitting in my car, and I felt this enormous pang in my heart for what I usually take for granted--a roof over my head, a clean space to call my own, and overall, a healthy living environment. Michael's situation might not be the WORST out there, but what this boy goes through every day just so as not step foot in a house that can't be walked through or breathe into is still so darn HARD. Because his mother is an unstoppable hoarder. Because there is not a single clean space where he could even sit, let alone sleep. Because no teenager should EVER live like this and yet I know this DOES happen in real life. Maybe not because of junk hoarding, but what about other family issues like violence or money problems?
I felt for Michael and his hardships, for his sister who is forced to sleep in the porch. I even felt for his mom who is messed up and doesn't let anyone in, who doesn't even notice how much pain she is inflicting on her kids. Mental health is a strong issue with his mother and it saddened me to read how helpless Michael, his sister, and even his other brother, felt. You see, there's absolutely nothing you could do for someone who doesn't want to be helped.
Wow, I am describing Breakfast with Neruda as such a heavy read, and maybe it is because of the themes found inside, but this book is also funny and uplifting at times. Shelly and Michael love to talk about literature, including about Neruda, and they paint such pretty thoughts in your mind as you follow their conversations. One of the things I liked the most in this novel!
There is of course much more to the story, but I'll leave it up to you to find out!
*This review can also be found at The Reader and the Chef. Huge thanks to the publisher for providing me a copy so I could give it my honest opinion.*
I lost count of the number of times that I've written and re-written this review and not being satisfied with what my fingers are typing. This book... I feel that this book deserves a lot more than what I'm going to say since it has such a great story inside and I know it will strike some chords and possibly inspire more than a few people out there. I have to admit this book wasn't the perfect read, it was slow at times and I wish to not have such a loose ending, but it's still enjoyable and I believe worth your time. So here are a few simple thoughts about this book:
As the blurb says, Breakfast with Neruda is about a boy who is stuck doing community service at his High School during summertime after trying to get back at his best friend who stole his girlfriend. In there he meets fellow misfit Shelly who quickly learns some of his deepest secrets--how he lives in his car (though not the why to his relief), how he usually dives into restaurant dumpsters to grab a bite (they are not that bad!), and how he wishes to at least know who his father is (is he is still alive).
I don't think I will ever be able to 100% relate to Michael's unusual living conditions (and his life), but while I was reading his story, I started to imagine how it would be living that way, as far as going outside and sitting in my car, and I felt this enormous pang in my heart for what I usually take for granted--a roof over my head, a clean space to call my own, and overall, a healthy living environment. Michael's situation might not be the WORST out there, but what this boy goes through every day just so as not step foot in a house that can't be walked through or breathe into is still so darn HARD. Because his mother is an unstoppable hoarder. Because there is not a single clean space where he could even sit, let alone sleep. Because no teenager should EVER live like this and yet I know this DOES happen in real life. Maybe not because of junk hoarding, but what about other family issues like violence or money problems?
I felt for Michael and his hardships, for his sister who is forced to sleep in the porch. I even felt for his mom who is messed up and doesn't let anyone in, who doesn't even notice how much pain she is inflicting on her kids. Mental health is a strong issue with his mother and it saddened me to read how helpless Michael, his sister, and even his other brother, felt. You see, there's absolutely nothing you could do for someone who doesn't want to be helped.
Wow, I am describing Breakfast with Neruda as such a heavy read, and maybe it is because of the themes found inside, but this book is also funny and uplifting at times. Shelly and Michael love to talk about literature, including about Neruda, and they paint such pretty thoughts in your mind as you follow their conversations. One of the things I liked the most in this novel!
There is of course much more to the story, but I'll leave it up to you to find out!
May 2, 2017
Rating: 3/5
(I received a free copy through a goodreads giveaway)
***Minor spoilers***
Michael was never much of a troublemaker, until he got caught with enough explosives with him to blow up the school. The plan was to blow up his best friend's car - the same best friend who stole his girlfriend. Except, he got caught and now must work with the custodians at his high school over the summer before he can finish his senior year. On the surface, you'd never guess what Michael was going through. After his mother's hoarding became particularly bad, he began to live out of his car. Nobody ever really knew, until another girl he was doing service with, Shelly, found him sleeping in the parking lot one morning before they were scheduled to start. Shelly has her own story of how she ended up doing community service, and Michael and Shelly would soon work together to talk through their own problems and come to terms with what's happened to them.
This book was better than I expected. After reading the summary, I didn't think too much of it and honestly didn't expect to like it that much. It also seemed at first that Shelly was going to be the stereotypical mysterious girl trope. In a way, she was. She had dyed her hair black and had some experience she wouldn't tell Michael about that caused her to have to do community service. But she also wasn't in a lot of ways. She was always there for Michael when he needed her, and was unapologetic about the hand she'd been dealt in life. She was an interesting character, but I personally liked Michael better. While I couldn't empathize with him about his living conditions, I could definitely feel for him in other ways.
The plot itself was pretty slow-moving, which was the main reason I didn't rate it higher. While the characters could hold their own well enough, the book was mostly their day to day life. The main plot point was that Michael was trying to find out who his dad was, because his mother would never tell him. The second main one would probably be trying to discover what really happened to Shelly. While these were interesting enough, it stretched over a very long period of time with no new conflicts really being introduced, so it couldn't hold my attention for the whole book. It got a bit dull after a while, and I wish there was something else happening in the beginning/middle of the book.
Overall, this was a pretty solid book, with good characters and a decent plot. It was slow moving, but once it got into things it was good. Some stuff that happened at the end were enjoyable, but an ending seemed rushed, and I hit the epilogue before I expected to. It just didn't feel done to me. It was a pretty open ending, which I suppose isn't a bad thing in itself, but something I'm not a fan of. In standalone novels, I prefer to have things wrapped up for the most part. Despite the negative points, though, if you're looking for a relaxed read I think you would enjoy this.
(I received a free copy through a goodreads giveaway)
***Minor spoilers***
Michael was never much of a troublemaker, until he got caught with enough explosives with him to blow up the school. The plan was to blow up his best friend's car - the same best friend who stole his girlfriend. Except, he got caught and now must work with the custodians at his high school over the summer before he can finish his senior year. On the surface, you'd never guess what Michael was going through. After his mother's hoarding became particularly bad, he began to live out of his car. Nobody ever really knew, until another girl he was doing service with, Shelly, found him sleeping in the parking lot one morning before they were scheduled to start. Shelly has her own story of how she ended up doing community service, and Michael and Shelly would soon work together to talk through their own problems and come to terms with what's happened to them.
This book was better than I expected. After reading the summary, I didn't think too much of it and honestly didn't expect to like it that much. It also seemed at first that Shelly was going to be the stereotypical mysterious girl trope. In a way, she was. She had dyed her hair black and had some experience she wouldn't tell Michael about that caused her to have to do community service. But she also wasn't in a lot of ways. She was always there for Michael when he needed her, and was unapologetic about the hand she'd been dealt in life. She was an interesting character, but I personally liked Michael better. While I couldn't empathize with him about his living conditions, I could definitely feel for him in other ways.
The plot itself was pretty slow-moving, which was the main reason I didn't rate it higher. While the characters could hold their own well enough, the book was mostly their day to day life. The main plot point was that Michael was trying to find out who his dad was, because his mother would never tell him. The second main one would probably be trying to discover what really happened to Shelly. While these were interesting enough, it stretched over a very long period of time with no new conflicts really being introduced, so it couldn't hold my attention for the whole book. It got a bit dull after a while, and I wish there was something else happening in the beginning/middle of the book.
Overall, this was a pretty solid book, with good characters and a decent plot. It was slow moving, but once it got into things it was good. Some stuff that happened at the end were enjoyable, but an ending seemed rushed, and I hit the epilogue before I expected to. It just didn't feel done to me. It was a pretty open ending, which I suppose isn't a bad thing in itself, but something I'm not a fan of. In standalone novels, I prefer to have things wrapped up for the most part. Despite the negative points, though, if you're looking for a relaxed read I think you would enjoy this.
January 20, 2018
I went into this book not having any kind of expectations because I have never heard of the poet Neruda. After reading it and seeing the excerpts from some of his poems, I think I want to check out more of his stuff! “Breakfast with Neruda” highlighted his work beautifully and I felt everything was well-woven into the plot. This is a young adult book, and at 23 years old I’m in the middle ground so to speak, where I don’t read YA like I used to but still enjoy a good one when it’s recommended to me. I thought this was a great example of YA that can be enjoyed by anyone of any age! The characters resonate with you no matter what. I appreciated that it wasn’t your typical teenager love story either; the author incorporated very difficult themes. I only wish that the ending had fleshed things out a little more. I would have liked to see how things went down in Seattle for Michael, and I also wanted to find out why exactly Michael’s Mom tried so hard to erase any connection to his father. Overall, a great book that kept me invested so I didn’t want to put it down!
December 5, 2016
The main character of this book is Michael Flynn. He is eighteen and lives in a car that he calls the Blue Whale because his mother has a problem with hoarding. He tried to blow up his friend’s car which means that not only does he have to repeat his senior year in high school but he has to do community service. That’s where he meets Shelly who is also having to do community service for something she has done. He falls in love with the girl and they both go on a quest to find Michael’s dad. Certain aspects of their search are not being revealed and I was a bit disappointed about that. Overall it was a fun read though, interesting, well-written and I liked the romance and the fact that the two main characters really tried to help each other cope with the difficulties of life.
December 19, 2016
A fun, easy YA read. The romance was a little bland, but deftly managed to avoid some typical YA tropes (and thanks to Laura Moe for not writing depressed teens - these characters had some optimism, which was refreshing). Many of the teenage conversations felt like realistic teen conversations, which I enjoyed. Though, it was hard for me not to compare this to Sea of Tranquility, which was amazing.
November 24, 2016
Loved this YA novel set in Ohio. The characters are interesting and complex. If you like John Green then you will enjoy Laura Moe.
June 6, 2017
I won this book through Goodreads Giveaways.
I thought that this was a fun quick read as far as young adult novels go. The characters were well-developed and unique. Their stories were as well. I did feel as if the ending was slightly rushed, although it did leave room for a sequel or the reader's imagination to fill in what ends up becoming of Michael's relationship with his father. I would recommend this book to others and may end up passing it along to my niece once she's a little older.
I thought that this was a fun quick read as far as young adult novels go. The characters were well-developed and unique. Their stories were as well. I did feel as if the ending was slightly rushed, although it did leave room for a sequel or the reader's imagination to fill in what ends up becoming of Michael's relationship with his father. I would recommend this book to others and may end up passing it along to my niece once she's a little older.
April 27, 2018
I agree with the front cover blub "Superb." It's not often I'm completely absorbed by a YA novel about teens who are having a rough time of life. In this case, I couldn't put the book down. I actually cried at the end. I guess the tension got to me.
As you already know the basic premise of the story, a teen gets himself in trouble and is sentenced to community service at his high school for the summer, and he's living out of his car. There's a girl who is also serving community service. As they clean, they get to know one another, their secrets and dreams. They build a trust that goes beyond their working days.
While some of the story seems unbelievable, I know there are many children, teens, and adult who face the same obstacles. This story will break your heart.
Perfect for teens and adults alike.
As you already know the basic premise of the story, a teen gets himself in trouble and is sentenced to community service at his high school for the summer, and he's living out of his car. There's a girl who is also serving community service. As they clean, they get to know one another, their secrets and dreams. They build a trust that goes beyond their working days.
While some of the story seems unbelievable, I know there are many children, teens, and adult who face the same obstacles. This story will break your heart.
Perfect for teens and adults alike.
April 30, 2018
Wonderful, realistic coming-of-age story about a teen dealing with his mother's hording and discovering new love. I couldn't put it down from the two-thirds point on. I also want to know what happens to Michael in the next chapter of his life.
May 31, 2017
This book was quite honestly, refreshing. Overall, I was enthralled with the characters, the pace of the writing was good, and the story was original. (No love triangles here!) Michael is like any good character, flawed. I cannot say that I absolutely loved either main character completely, but that is probably a good thing. At times, the rate of progression of their relationship seemed a little quick to me, but nonetheless, I still think it was fairly realistic. I mean, who didn't have a relationship that progressed a little illogically when they were young?? I would have appreciated more insight into Shelly's background, and her story of transforming into the Shelly that Michael falls for. The reason given for her change of personality and estrangement from her family seemed a little insufficient.
I really enjoyed the different trials that the author presented in this novel. Hoarding is a very prevalent and damaging disease within our society, we often lose sight of just how painful this struggle can be for families and individuals. Hoarding is estimated to affect 2-5% (that's almost twice as many as suffer from Alzheimer's!) of the United States alone, with 92% of those people also suffering from a co-occurring mental illness. As someone who struggles daily with anxiety disorders, depression, and other risk factors for hoarding, it is truly a slippery slope. Affordable, accessible mental health care should be at the forefront of our minds as a nation, and a society.
Annie being left in the home with their mother was just heart-rending, it would have been interesting to have seen her point of view in a little more detail. Maybe this comment will show just how far west I live, but I had no idea that Ohio could be so dangerous. The loss of Annie's father and Michael's anxiety about the security of his rolling home kind of shocked me a bit.
I can't help but be curious about Michael's mother, how complex and difficult her youth must have been. Her story would most likely illustrate even more clearly the need for mental health services in our nation. When thinking of her, the tune of "Unwell" by Matchbox Twenty dances through my mind, and I feel for her in a very real way.
The ending of the book was so genuine to real life, everything doesn't always end in a pretty box, tied up with a bow. True love doesn't have to be forever love, people come in and out of our lives, what we do with their influence marks the breadth of the relationship. I am left feeling a little unsettled, slightly uncomfortable, and I think that was intended.
Breakfast with Neruda
I really enjoyed the different trials that the author presented in this novel. Hoarding is a very prevalent and damaging disease within our society, we often lose sight of just how painful this struggle can be for families and individuals. Hoarding is estimated to affect 2-5% (that's almost twice as many as suffer from Alzheimer's!) of the United States alone, with 92% of those people also suffering from a co-occurring mental illness. As someone who struggles daily with anxiety disorders, depression, and other risk factors for hoarding, it is truly a slippery slope. Affordable, accessible mental health care should be at the forefront of our minds as a nation, and a society.
Annie being left in the home with their mother was just heart-rending, it would have been interesting to have seen her point of view in a little more detail. Maybe this comment will show just how far west I live, but I had no idea that Ohio could be so dangerous. The loss of Annie's father and Michael's anxiety about the security of his rolling home kind of shocked me a bit.
I can't help but be curious about Michael's mother, how complex and difficult her youth must have been. Her story would most likely illustrate even more clearly the need for mental health services in our nation. When thinking of her, the tune of "Unwell" by Matchbox Twenty dances through my mind, and I feel for her in a very real way.
The ending of the book was so genuine to real life, everything doesn't always end in a pretty box, tied up with a bow. True love doesn't have to be forever love, people come in and out of our lives, what we do with their influence marks the breadth of the relationship. I am left feeling a little unsettled, slightly uncomfortable, and I think that was intended.
Breakfast with Neruda
July 31, 2016
Review posted on: www.bookishhipster.wordpress.com
My Thoughts: ****Four Stars****
This book was sent to me in exchange for an honest review from Merit Press! Thank you so much! Like I mentioned above, receiving this book was a total surprise and it truly did not disappoint me!
The story follows Michael Flynn, a young man who is stuck living in his car because his mother is a hoarder. Michael has no idea why his mother holds onto useless junk that have no meaning to her other than the simple fact that they were on sale. Michael was a really likeable character, he was very realistic and that’s what made me love him more. After getting in trouble for trying to blow up his ex-best friend’s car with fireworks on school grounds, Michael is suspended and sentenced to community service cleaning out Rooster High with the cantankerous janitor, Earl.
While helping clean out the school Michael meets Shelly, a young beautiful girl with a mysterious past of her own. Shelly quickly becomes the highlight of Michael’s days. Shelly knows Michael is hiding something from her and Michael knows Shelly is hiding secrets as well. With the entire summer ahead of them they vow to tell each other everything in time for fear of scaring the other off.
As Shelly and Michael become closer throughout the novel they start to unravel each others secrets. After finding an old diary of his mother’s Michael learns the heartbreaking truth behind his mother’s addiction to junk and possibly the answers to his never ending suspicions of who his father might be.
This was simply such a raw emotionally packed novel, and I loved it entirely. This novel focuses around such a real issue, that everyday families and friends face and can relate too! I think teens and adults will have no problem devouring this book like I did in no time at all! If you’re looking for a great book about first love, old love, and the love of family, this novel is for you!
Have you read Breakfast With Neruda or any other books that focus on real-life topics? Let me know in the comments below!
My Thoughts: ****Four Stars****
This book was sent to me in exchange for an honest review from Merit Press! Thank you so much! Like I mentioned above, receiving this book was a total surprise and it truly did not disappoint me!
The story follows Michael Flynn, a young man who is stuck living in his car because his mother is a hoarder. Michael has no idea why his mother holds onto useless junk that have no meaning to her other than the simple fact that they were on sale. Michael was a really likeable character, he was very realistic and that’s what made me love him more. After getting in trouble for trying to blow up his ex-best friend’s car with fireworks on school grounds, Michael is suspended and sentenced to community service cleaning out Rooster High with the cantankerous janitor, Earl.
While helping clean out the school Michael meets Shelly, a young beautiful girl with a mysterious past of her own. Shelly quickly becomes the highlight of Michael’s days. Shelly knows Michael is hiding something from her and Michael knows Shelly is hiding secrets as well. With the entire summer ahead of them they vow to tell each other everything in time for fear of scaring the other off.
As Shelly and Michael become closer throughout the novel they start to unravel each others secrets. After finding an old diary of his mother’s Michael learns the heartbreaking truth behind his mother’s addiction to junk and possibly the answers to his never ending suspicions of who his father might be.
This was simply such a raw emotionally packed novel, and I loved it entirely. This novel focuses around such a real issue, that everyday families and friends face and can relate too! I think teens and adults will have no problem devouring this book like I did in no time at all! If you’re looking for a great book about first love, old love, and the love of family, this novel is for you!
Have you read Breakfast With Neruda or any other books that focus on real-life topics? Let me know in the comments below!
August 31, 2016
In this novel we follow two teenagers struggling to find themselves, fighting off their demons and trying to become someone new and different from what they are supposed to be.
Stuck in sunmer work at school, paying for some past crime of theirs, Michael and Shelly develop a great friendship that may lead to a beautiful love story based on support and trust. Both main characters are going through a hard time and find a little bit of peace when they spend time together, an undeniable attraction that could save them.
The thing with the characters, and what makes this book so wonderful, is that you can easily believe in them, care for them. There is a type of characters I really enjoy, the ones I can develop true feelings for, as if they were real and keeping them safe was my duty. Well, Breakfast With Neruda does have the kind of characters I would like to read about in every single book. They feel tridimensional, much bigger and deeper than a couple names inked on paper and a few characteristics thrown in. Especially Michael, the boy whose family is being torn apart, made my heart tear up.
You see, this novel is light and funny, definitely original... and heartbreaking, too.
There are some literary references here and there, and I happened to enjoy them much more than I was expecting. Well, this whole novel surprised me. I had no expectations at all, but Laura Moe did not fail to steal my breath.
It is true that the beginning was a bit slow and it took me some time to really get into the story, and some things may be rushed and unrealistic, but generally it is a well-paced book with incredible writing style and plot structuring.
Contemporary lovers, this one was made for you all.
Breakfast With Neruda, a story about learning about ourselves and those surrounding us. Impecable friendship, maybe something more. Laura Moe creates a heart-warming story filled with hope, love, friendship and family.
I want to thank Merit Press for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review.
Stuck in sunmer work at school, paying for some past crime of theirs, Michael and Shelly develop a great friendship that may lead to a beautiful love story based on support and trust. Both main characters are going through a hard time and find a little bit of peace when they spend time together, an undeniable attraction that could save them.
The thing with the characters, and what makes this book so wonderful, is that you can easily believe in them, care for them. There is a type of characters I really enjoy, the ones I can develop true feelings for, as if they were real and keeping them safe was my duty. Well, Breakfast With Neruda does have the kind of characters I would like to read about in every single book. They feel tridimensional, much bigger and deeper than a couple names inked on paper and a few characteristics thrown in. Especially Michael, the boy whose family is being torn apart, made my heart tear up.
You see, this novel is light and funny, definitely original... and heartbreaking, too.
There are some literary references here and there, and I happened to enjoy them much more than I was expecting. Well, this whole novel surprised me. I had no expectations at all, but Laura Moe did not fail to steal my breath.
It is true that the beginning was a bit slow and it took me some time to really get into the story, and some things may be rushed and unrealistic, but generally it is a well-paced book with incredible writing style and plot structuring.
Contemporary lovers, this one was made for you all.
Breakfast With Neruda, a story about learning about ourselves and those surrounding us. Impecable friendship, maybe something more. Laura Moe creates a heart-warming story filled with hope, love, friendship and family.
I want to thank Merit Press for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 8, 2018
Excellent realistic novel about a young man voluntarily living in his car rather than at home, because his divorced mother is a hoarder and their house is pretty unlivable. (His younger half-sister sleeps on the porch because she can at least keep that area free from clutter.) It's summertime and Michael's doing community service, before he repeats his senior year, because he was expelled for "almost accidentally blowing up the school" in a revenge prank gone wrong. He meets Shelly, also punished with community service (they have to help the custodian clean the school), and they strike up a friendship and tentative romance. But they're both keeping secrets from each other about their lives, and they have to learn to trust each other. Shelly is a fun character, very unique, kind of a "mild badass" I would call her. Michael is a smart guy, loves to read literature, wants to go to college but has no idea how he'll afford to ever leave his small Ohio town to get there. He and Shelly bond over a shared love of the poet Pablo Neruda's works, which is not something you see in your average everyday teen novel, I loved that! Rural poor Ohio is an important part of the setting, as well as the past mistakes of parents and how those affect them and their children. Other characters include Michael's older half-brother (all three kids share a mom) and that brother's dad, who tries to be a father figure to Michael, who's never known who his own father is. A good "drama" book as the kids say. Also always fun to read a book by an Ohio author, who puts local flavor like Columbus' The Book Loft bookstore in her story!
March 28, 2018
Laura Moe has a distinctive and keen eye for writing realistic young adult stories. She shares the lives of two high school misfits (one who is homeless, the other who comes from a wealthy family) who fit together in the critical, judgmental world of teens who don't accept teens who are on the fringe. Each reluctantly has a story to tell. Together they come to trust each other and those around them.
Once you start reading the story you will find it difficult to set it down. The characters will stay with you long after you finish their story.
Once you start reading the story you will find it difficult to set it down. The characters will stay with you long after you finish their story.
March 13, 2017
I just finished reading "Breakfast with Neruda" by Laura Moe. I really enjoyed this book and read it today in one sitting. This love story all starts out when Michael and Shelly meet at the school during summer, earning community service. Michael is going into Senior year for the second time, he has a hard home life and gets through the days living in his small car. On the other hand, Shelly is a emo, girl with a nicotine addiction, but has a loving and wealthy family to support her. Shelly and Michael quickly become best friends and end up spending a lot of time together. When they take a trip to Columbus, they become closer. One day the two are looking through Michael moms old letters, when they find her old diary, and in it she talks about a someone she used to see. As Shelly is reading this, she notices something, "Crossed-out -name-guy is your dad" (Moe 214). It all made sense, Michael never had a father, but he just found out who he was.
I would definitely read this book to find out more about Michael's father and about his family story. There is so much stuff that happens throughout this book, but what I like the most is how two abnormal teenagers meet up and fall in love. I rate this book 5/5!
I would definitely read this book to find out more about Michael's father and about his family story. There is so much stuff that happens throughout this book, but what I like the most is how two abnormal teenagers meet up and fall in love. I rate this book 5/5!
April 17, 2017
I loved this book. Breakfast With Neruda is quiet story--everything super dramatic, like Michael's attempt to blow up his girlfriend-stealing friend's car with a much of firecrackers, happens before the novel opens--and as such may struggle to find readers from among the many who want action and lots of it.
That said, I found this novel extremely compelling and well-written. The book takes place over a summer when Michael and Shelly, two teens, are doing mandated community service by assisting the custodians in cleaning their high school. Micheal, the main character, is living in his car in self-imposed exile from his mom's hoarder house. Shelly has a past she doesn't want to talk about. The book is about them getting to know each other, them learning to trust each other (and other characters), and about Michael starting to stretch the possibilities of his life far past where his expectations had been.
One of the reasons I liked this book so much is because it accurately shows what it feels like to be embarrassed to bring friends and more-than-friends home and to worry that they couldn't possibly disassociate you from your parents' mess. I grew up in a house somewhat like that, and Moe captures the experience.
That said, I found this novel extremely compelling and well-written. The book takes place over a summer when Michael and Shelly, two teens, are doing mandated community service by assisting the custodians in cleaning their high school. Micheal, the main character, is living in his car in self-imposed exile from his mom's hoarder house. Shelly has a past she doesn't want to talk about. The book is about them getting to know each other, them learning to trust each other (and other characters), and about Michael starting to stretch the possibilities of his life far past where his expectations had been.
One of the reasons I liked this book so much is because it accurately shows what it feels like to be embarrassed to bring friends and more-than-friends home and to worry that they couldn't possibly disassociate you from your parents' mess. I grew up in a house somewhat like that, and Moe captures the experience.
October 2, 2017
BREAKFAST WITH NERUDA is a social problem novel, a Romance, and a quest story. Michael Flynn ‘s mother is a hoarder so Michael, 18, lives in car. He is doing community service because he tried to blow up his best friend’s car with fireworks. The friend had stolen Michael’s girlfriend.
While doing community service cleaning the school over the summer, Michael meets Shelly, who is also doing community service for getting in trouble. Author Laura Moe does a great job of adding suspense by revealing slowly why Shelly was in trouble. The romance between Michael and Shelly builds slowly and is believable.
Michael’s quest is to find out who his father is. He has two younger siblings with two different terrific fathers—although one is dead. But Michael’s mother refuses to tell him who his father is, or the circumstances of his birth. So Michael, with Shelly’s help, searches for clues of his father’s identity.
The author is a master at developing relationships, especially natural, yet interesting, dialogue. Moe’s style reminds me of Tommy Wallach (THANKS FOR THE TROUBLE). Moe is a debut author to watch.
While doing community service cleaning the school over the summer, Michael meets Shelly, who is also doing community service for getting in trouble. Author Laura Moe does a great job of adding suspense by revealing slowly why Shelly was in trouble. The romance between Michael and Shelly builds slowly and is believable.
Michael’s quest is to find out who his father is. He has two younger siblings with two different terrific fathers—although one is dead. But Michael’s mother refuses to tell him who his father is, or the circumstances of his birth. So Michael, with Shelly’s help, searches for clues of his father’s identity.
The author is a master at developing relationships, especially natural, yet interesting, dialogue. Moe’s style reminds me of Tommy Wallach (THANKS FOR THE TROUBLE). Moe is a debut author to watch.
May 30, 2016
Laura Moe's first novel for young adults is charming and literate; there was the added benefit that it takes place in central Ohio, so it was fun to recognize Columbus landmarks. (A big shout out to The Book Loft in German Village!)
Michael Flynn is a High School Senior that chooses to live in a his car when his hoarding Mom packs the apartment to overflowing with useless junk. Additionally, he is forced to help clean the school over Summer break and repeat his Senior year when an act of vengeance goes awry.
Despite his troubles, Michael is remarkably well-balanced; holding down a job at a theater, and getting along with his Mom and siblings. I even found myself rather envious of the fact that he manages to have two girlfriends during his High School years.
Not to sound too pitiful, but the most prevalent thing I remember from High School was a debilitating shyness and feeling terribly alone most of the time.
Still, a fine first novel. The author's love of books is evident in the many literary references, and I look forward to future works by Ms. Moe.
Michael Flynn is a High School Senior that chooses to live in a his car when his hoarding Mom packs the apartment to overflowing with useless junk. Additionally, he is forced to help clean the school over Summer break and repeat his Senior year when an act of vengeance goes awry.
Despite his troubles, Michael is remarkably well-balanced; holding down a job at a theater, and getting along with his Mom and siblings. I even found myself rather envious of the fact that he manages to have two girlfriends during his High School years.
Not to sound too pitiful, but the most prevalent thing I remember from High School was a debilitating shyness and feeling terribly alone most of the time.
Still, a fine first novel. The author's love of books is evident in the many literary references, and I look forward to future works by Ms. Moe.
May 19, 2017
As the year was coming to a close, I decided to read "Breakfast with Neruda" by Laura Moe. This was a great quick read and it have a quirky romance to it. Micheal, a student who has to repeat senior year, is stuck working at the school over summer break for community service. While he's there, he meets a girl named Shelly, a goth girl who has tons of secrets to find. They both spend more and more time with each other and eventually grow closer than ever. They come from completely different worlds because Micheal lives inside his car because his mother is a hoarder, and Shelly is a rich girl with a creepy past. They each have secrets that they hide from each other and we find out as readers, that Micheal doesn't know his dad. They find clues that lead to someone that may or may not be his dad, but will eventually find out in time.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to find out about what their secrets are and who Micheal's dad is. I would rate this book a 4/5 because this had a kind of a slow start. Overall, I liked it though.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to find out about what their secrets are and who Micheal's dad is. I would rate this book a 4/5 because this had a kind of a slow start. Overall, I liked it though.
May 27, 2016
This book is one of those moving pieces of literature you hope is adopted into the curriculum of middle and high schools across the country. So often kids like Michael and Shelly are labeled as trouble makers and cast aside, written off as though they have no chance of success, and it's a vicious cycle. Breakfast With Neruda gives us their side of the story, and how many times there might be a lot more going on in these so-called deviants lives than we imagine. With clarity and pathos, Laura Moe paints a hopeful picture with brief instances of a light trying to break through, amidst great struggle on the journey these kids face to find who they really are, or want to be. I highly recommend this and will definitely be adding it to my daughter's home library for when she's older. (She's 3 so I doubt she'd really let me read it to her just yet, we'll try tackling Pooh bear first.)
September 12, 2016
"What’s so bad about being a hoarder?”
That was my first thought when I first heard about Laura Moe’s Breakfast with Neruda. I mulled it over in my mind a couple of times before I could even read the first page of this amazing novel. I couldn’t understand why someone storing up things yielded so many consequences for their family and I just assumed that the book was based solely on a kid going through his “awkward years”. By the time I got to the fifth chapter, I understood the reasons behind why Michael refused to live at home and why he attempted to blow up his mother’s car. More importantly, I understood why some people become hoarders and how being a hoarder can seriously screw over your family members and loved ones. Read the full review on The Young Folks: http://tinyurl.com/zy4fh2z
That was my first thought when I first heard about Laura Moe’s Breakfast with Neruda. I mulled it over in my mind a couple of times before I could even read the first page of this amazing novel. I couldn’t understand why someone storing up things yielded so many consequences for their family and I just assumed that the book was based solely on a kid going through his “awkward years”. By the time I got to the fifth chapter, I understood the reasons behind why Michael refused to live at home and why he attempted to blow up his mother’s car. More importantly, I understood why some people become hoarders and how being a hoarder can seriously screw over your family members and loved ones. Read the full review on The Young Folks: http://tinyurl.com/zy4fh2z
June 14, 2016
A 3.5. Michael (aka Neruda) has spent his senior year living in his car escaping and rejecting his mentally ill hoarder mother's home and influence while also struggling with her impact on who he is as a person since he is clueless about his father's identity. Assigned a summer of community service for having a locker filled with fireworks, he befriends Shelly(a girl who has just spent her junior year rebelling against her present life while struggling to find her identity). Love of literature,especially the poetry of Neruda, initially helps them connect; but as they open up to each other, together they are able to work through their mutual pain.
June 11, 2017
when I started this book I thought it was so stupid but I kept reading, waiting for a plot twist.. but towards the end I really liked it. Michael and Shelly are kind of flat characters and their depth and layers seem kinda forced. But in the end I loved the growth that happened in Michael. I loved Earl and Dot though! Once they figure out Michael's situation, they take him in and we learn they have been foster parents - which was like the best part of the story. I did kinda like how the conclusion of the book left us wondering what Michael's plans are..overall pretty good read, just took me awhile to get into it
September 30, 2016
A very good YA book about a dysfunctional family... for the most part. A boy living out of his car after being suspended from school meets an eccentric girl during their summer "punishment" at the high school. Their adventures together to deal with their family dynamics and their own relationship mixed in with a lot of coffee drinking...
I received this book from a giveaway in return for an honest review.
I have already given this book to someone else to read and would recommend this book.
I received this book from a giveaway in return for an honest review.
I have already given this book to someone else to read and would recommend this book.
June 16, 2017
I received this ARC from the author in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was able to identify with both main characters and they were very realistic. I liked the pacing and the way secrets were revealed. It felt organic rather than forced. I love the allusions and the quotes used throughout the book; they are well placed and go well with the story. I would love to read a sequel to this and follow Michael and Shelly's next steps through senior year and college. Very enjoyable read.
I really enjoyed reading this book. I was able to identify with both main characters and they were very realistic. I liked the pacing and the way secrets were revealed. It felt organic rather than forced. I love the allusions and the quotes used throughout the book; they are well placed and go well with the story. I would love to read a sequel to this and follow Michael and Shelly's next steps through senior year and college. Very enjoyable read.
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