Vierzehn zu sein ist echt anstrengend. Und absolut kein Zuckerschlecken. Findet jedenfalls Faith. Und manövriert dabei durch dramatische Klamottennotfälle, nie dagewesene Lehrertraumata, den üblichen Familienwahnsinn und hochvermintes Jungsgebiet.
I grew up in a tiny house with a big family. I’m the fourth of five sisters, which means people sometimes ask me if my family are anything like the Bennetts from Pride and Prejudice. Unfortunately not, but it does mean that I still eat with my arm shielding my plate.
I’ve got a daughter (The Ginger Ninja) and a son (Goblin Baby) and a computer-genius husband. We live in a higgledy-piggledy house where I can never find anything. It usually turns up under a book. There are enough Children’s and YA books in my house to build a fort with. But I absolutely haven’t ever skived off work to do that.
When I run out of hilarious things that happened to me as a teenage that I can disguise as fiction, I take a break by writing dystopian thrillers as C.J. Harper. Nothing more relaxing than a totalitarian state where everyone is out to get you.
Have a Little Faith is the funniest book I've read this year, and the funniest since a new Georgia Nicolson book graced my shelves. I laughed out loud all the way through it and was sorely disappointed when I got to the end and realised there was no more to read. There's a second book being published in 2014 though, which I can't wait for. Hurrah!
Have a Little Faith is about fifteen-year-old Faith, year ten school student and all round prankster. She embraces her school days as if she were a character in the Just William books, getting up to no good and causing mischief. Her teachers despair (especially Miss Ramsbottom who, I think, would quite like to be rid of her) and constantly dole out detention forms and trips to the head's office, and what does Faith do? She appears to actually enjoy it, causing havoc for all involved!
I love books like this, they really make me laugh and I'm a big fan of the daily diary format that this is written in. It's full of boys and teenage angst, perfect for its target audience and anyone else who stumbles across a copy. Candy Harper has a way with words, a hilarious turn of phrase so dry and deadpan that I'm positive we'd be friends if we ever met.
Although Faith is the star of the show, the supporting cast of characters compliment her perfectly, especially best friend Megs who is just as bonkers as she is. Many hi-jinks ensue when they're together, leaving them in several situations I'm sure they wish they weren't in! Like, for instance, attempting to drive a teacher's car to a new school parking space...
Have a Little Faith is one of my favourite books of the year so far and I'll be recommending it to anyone who will listen. It's perfect for existing readers of Louise Rennison's classic Georgia Nicolson series and Sue Limb's Jess Jordan books and is actually better than certain instalments of those series. That's very high praise indeed!
Finally, I had the time to read the Faith books, they have been in my TBR for a while. Starting of course with this one in which we meet Faith, her friends, her family (including annoying brother and biscuit-stealing grandma), her romance interests (still shipping her with Ethan, I just don't see why she is with Finn he is so bland and like a cardboard). We see her pull pranks on cute boys (and they do it back), we read about snogs and how gorgeous a boy is. School is going so-so, she is quite smart, but loves playing pranks or making the day a bit funnier and that isn't something most teachers like. One thing I wasn't too much of a fan of was her tendency to get violent. We often read how she is holding a foot against the throat of someone or that she hurts them in another way. I am not sure if it was exaggerated, but it still felt really NOPE. I just loved how much this felt like a book written by Louise Rennison. It is silly and crazy, fun, features a brilliant MC, a dash of romance.
Finding the right words to produce a coherent review of why I absolutely loved every single moment I spent reading this book is extremely difficult because while it managed to keep my attention from the get go, and I fell in love with Faith's personality and charisma, I also felt connected to this book in that it touched me in places a book hadn't in months; it touched my memories and made me relive the highlights and the hilarious moments of my own year 10 experience.
Have a Little Faith is set out much like a diary, between the months of September and December, and is set in the past tense, some days having extremely short entries and other's having a few pages worth and I absolutely loved this layout; it was unique and done in a way that made even the shortest of entries entertaining. Yes, some of the entries were a little samey, Grandma visiting and going to the 24/7 Tesco on Sunday afternoons, but it was these things almost helped me relate and connect the story, because we all have routines, and grandparents who just won't stop coming round, a siblings we fight with in the middle of shops and while they could have been as mundane as hell, Harper made them all entertaining, and each week was different. Before I knew it, I'd flown through whole months in 30 minutes; Harper is a genius.
I mentioned in an In Bed With Badger were I featured Have a Little Faith and it's sequel that I was certain I would love Faith and I was so right. Faith had this bubbly, quick witted and damn hilarious humour that she carried around with her, as well as a sense of confidence and quick fire come backs that never get old, much like tripping up your little brother; she was so utterly relatable and her attitude was always so believable, I couldn't imagine having no read this book; Faith stole my heart and soul and that girl has got some cracking good tricks up her sleeve. As if that wasn't enough, her friendship with Megs was so like my own friendship with my best friend when we were younger it was almost as if Harper had stolen our lives. The jokes, the jealousy, the whole hearted insults they gave each other, how they're personalities worked so well together and they each stood by each others annoying gabbing over crushes was just fantastic, and the subtle things such as texting or talking every night, holding up cards with words on because you've already had the same conversation a thousand times was just- there's not ways to say how much I loved this relationship they had. Faith is myself and Megs is my best friend Beth and there is no way anyone can tell me that this book wasn't based off us without getting a slap.
Switching things up with this book plot wise was what I liked most. Instead of there being this huge 'finding yourself in school' nonsense, or 'searching your future' the plot was a simple 'find the right boyfriend' and yes, some people won't like this whatsoever, but this book gave me exactly what it said on the tin and it delivered brilliantly. Both the love interests had their own personalities and didn't reflect one another too much, and they both offered Faith something that she wanted, Finn the good looks and Ethan the personality and humour she loves in people. Of course, I found myself rooting for Ethan and still do, and I'm willing to place bets that if you read this book, you will find yourself that way too; out of the two of them Ethan had many more layers, he stood by his friends, took the blows when it wasn't his fault and had a sense of humour and sarcastic nature that could have challenged Faiths. If I was years younger and had Ethan after my heart, I'd be his in a heartbeat.
Yes, this book is full of childhood cheese and cliche, and yes, this book very centred around friendships, family and boys, so if you're looking for a book with a well of depthness and characters developed until you can't add anything more, then Have a Little Faith isn't for you, but if you want humour enough to cry your eyes out, characters that could be based off yourself and a damn cute slow burn romance then this is so your book. A one sitter book with a one of a kind character; Faith, you're a star. Now where's my copy of Keep the Faith..
A brilliantly funny read perfect for fans of Louise Rennison.
I'm fully going to admit this is not at all my kind of book and quite honestly the only reason I read it is because I met the author and heard her read an extract and was hooked. The main character Faith has a brilliant voice. She captures that teenager-ness fantastically well and as a result is brilliantly funny without being nasty or over the top. I loved following her story and seeing what she was going to get up to next as I knew it was guaranteed to make me chuckle.
What I particularly liked about the book is that underneath it all Faith has a heart of gold and I loved seeing that side of her come out over the course of the book. All too often characters like her can be really irritating as far too much but in Faith's case she wasn't which I was eternally grateful for because an irritating whining teen can really put me off a book.
All in book a cracking read which made me chuckle from start to finish.
This was the funniest book I've read all year. I'd love to chat with author Candy Harper in real life, as I'm sure I'd be bent double laughing. The main character Faith is going into year ten promising she won't be as bad as she was in Year 9. She has an answer for everything, a reason to get out of anything with a hilarious,sarcastic wit that her teachers and even her mother give back just as sharply. Full of teenage drama, boys, clothes, evil teachers and boring school subjects, I enjoyed 'Have a Little Faith' immensely.
I really enjoyed this book, don't get me wrong. It was so hilarious and I quickly grew to love Faith so much, but I'd figured that even though there is a sequel, I probably wouldn't read it. But that ending!!! Gimme the sequel now!! I thought I had detached myself from the characters, but as I closed the book I realised that I actually cared so much and I simply need to see what happens next! A quick, sweet and funny contemporary read that is a go to if you want a lighter book that will make you smile in between reads that deal with heavy and darker topics.
I don't have much to say. This series was okay, I would probably recommend it to a 12 year old looking for a book. It's a fun read if you haven't really got anything better to do. The main character gets a bit annoying at times but otherwise I guess it's okay.
I loved reading this book!! I honestly couldn’t put it down and it was utterly hilarious. Would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants a laugh, I can’t wait to read the next books in the series!!
J’ai trouvé le livre un poil trop vulgaire et la plus pars des personnages ne sont pas attachent , cependant il est très facile à lire je ne l’ai donc pas terminé . Mais ce livre peux convenir à beaucoup de personnes.
Originally posted on www.serendipityreviews.co.uk After hearing the author, Candy Harper, read a few passages from this book, I knew I had to read it. In fact, I have visions of her reading the whole book aloud to me. If there are plans afoot to develop an audio version of the book, then Candy Harper must read it – because in my eyes she is an older version of Faith.
I loved Faith! As soon as I was introduced to her, I knew I was going to want to know her better. If I was at high school, Faith would’ve been the girl I’d have befriended. She is so full of herself, yet adorable with it. She pushes her friends to the limit before reeling them back in. She can’t keep a secret, but feels she is doing her duty as a member of society by getting the information out there. She’s just wild and daring, extremely selfish at times, yet caring at others and I love her. Her sarcastic views of the world had me in stitches.
The book is a sort of diary format and follows Faith’s first four months back at school. She’s been split up from her best friend Megs, and it’s interesting to watch how they deal with the changes and cope with the new additions to their little friendship group. On top of that the girls are now spending time with the lads from the local boys school, which adds yet another layer to their group as they navigate their way through the minefield of blossoming romance.
This book will really appeal to fans of Louise Rennison’s books. In fact I think Faith is about to give Georgia Nicholson a run for her money when it comes down to who might be the funniest. This book is hilarious from start to finish – Faith is one of the funniest characters I‘ve come across in years. I’m looking forward to spending time with her again.
I got this book from the library on a whim. I was hoping for something great to follow on from the two previous books I had just read. It was, how can I put this, absolutely hilarious and is probably one of the funniest books I have ever had the pleasure of reading.
I have to say, the main character Faith, is such an interesting character and was brought to life so well. She had such a strong voice throughout and you could tell through the humor, that she wasn't a force to be reckoned with. Also, you can see that she had a sense of authority, as well as being a bit of a leader amongst her peers. Saying this however, I thought at times she came across as slightly arrogant and this did add to this character very well. She was arrogant, but not to the point that I hated or resented her, but in a way that showed a sense of confidence which I think was needed.
The author really understood what it is like to be a teenage girl of today and was able to show us how real friendships should be, as well as getting close with boys for the first time. When it came to both of these things, I felt they were dealt with in a realistic way rather than going in head first with a cliche, that usually leaves me feeling irritated as it is expected.
Going back to the idea of boys, I was really shocked near the end and I am really hoping that she picks correctly with who she goes with. I know who I want her to be with, but I will let you decide once you have read the book as well.
I really love it when I witness something fresh and different, and this is definitely that. If you are reader who loves to find that lovely little jem, then this is the book for you!
Have a Little Faith is a laugh out loud barrel of giggles that will have you snorting inappropriately from start to finish!
Oh my gosh, Faith is quite simply one hell of a gal and I loved every awesome moment spent in her company. She is spunky, loud, quirky, speaks her mind and if I'm completely honest, reminds me a little of my teenage self!
This is so relevant to teens today and they will easily relate to Faith and her wonderful group of friends. The storyline is jam packed with teen drama, embarrassing families, pranks, shame face moments and best of all BOYS!!
We are taken through the story in diary form, which is a huge plus because we get to delve into the bonkers workings of Faith's mind.
Faith's friends are all very individual and it was very refreshing to see how different they all were, because usually we see teens all trying to fit in and be the same. Meg, Faith's BF is a wonderful partner in crime and the pair form a devilish duo not to be messed with.
Lots of people have said that this is perfect for Louise Rennison fans, and yes this has the same sort of styling, but I wasn't a fan of Rennison's books and I LOVED this! I think this is a little bit more on the mature side.
Have a Little Faith is a hilarious read full of girly scandal and full on naughtiness! Faith is a truly memorable character that is very moreish! Candy Harper has mastered the art of what girls want and need to read! I loved the girls' journeys and I really can't wait for Faith's next feisty adventure!
This is definitely the book to brighten any gloomy day. Faith is vibrant, fun and maybe a little crazy but only in the best possible way.
The book is Faith’s diary and begins with her and Megs (best friend) being split up. If Faith behaves they might get reunited next term. The chances of that becomes less as the weeks pass, while Faith does try it’s not that easy being good, especially with Miss Ramsbottom.
Faith voice is brilliant, reading her story is just hours of fun that you don’t want to end. It’s not just Faith that I loved, her friends are just as good and the banter between her and Ethan is brilliant. All the pranks are they play on each other are hilarious.
I enjoyed Have a Little Faith a lot and finished it in one sitting, reading the sequel Keep the Faith straight afterwards.
I thought that as a book that had been noted as similar to Louise Rennison's series, I would pick it up as give it a go.
It was a quick read that I thoroughly enjoyed and found myself laughing inwardly - not out loud in a public place, obviously.
I really enjoyed the character development of Faith and Ethan. I personally think that she could do a lot better with Ethan and not Finn (talk about being a bit dim...). I really wanted more from Candy Harper as I found that sue sort of left the book on a cliffhanger- I hate cliffhangers, but there is a second book which I NEED to pick up * hint hint Simon and Schuster*
C'mon - you HAVE to love Faith. She's just so funny and amazing - and she's relatable, too.
I was sort of apprehensive when I picked up this book. I thought I'd HATE the main character, because she isn't like me AT ALL. I thought it would probably be awful and stupid and stereotypical.
But it wasn't.
So much drama, and so much humour, and so much romance. If I had a life like Faith's - well, I'd LOVE to. And here's me, sitting on the computer all day - never going to parties, never really doing ANYTHING. Pfft. Yeah, SO like Faith.
I'd recommend this book if you want a laugh or if you just want to indulge in a bit of teenaged drama. It's fabulous.
I read this in a day which is bloody impressive for me, and found it nice to try something that was different from what I have been reading lately. I like that this was easy and not serious.
I really like that it is broken up by months and days (plus later, laterer...) so I could read a quick few sections when I didn't have a lot of time...or waiting at the doctors.
This would be great for an early teen. I have another book on my shelve in this category which I am sure I will like this as a light hearted break.
I found this book very funny. I am 15 the same age as Faith and although the author did get some of the ideas right teenagers dont just wear a little eye make up. At house parties they tend to drink and I found some things were similar to 12 year olds I would say Faith and her friends do not at all act 15 and that was the only thing that ruined the book for me. It did keep me very entertained though and I will be reading the next book soon.
I really enjoyed this book, it's very funny and just the thing to read for a quick pick me up. Candy Harper captures the voice of a school girl perfectly and I really enjoyed getting to know the characters and witnessing Faith's take on the world. I hope to pick up the next book in the series soon.
I really liked the surprises in store, like Faith getting her first and second kiss from Finn, Megs dating Cameron and Faith attempting to drive Miss Ramsbottom's car.
I did have doubts about this book at first, but they did faded as I got into the book a bit more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
OMG this is an incredibly entertaining book, and I have to say, is waaayyy better than "Angus, thongs and full-frontal snogging". There has to be a second book to this and I seriously can't wait to read it.
Utterly charming and hilarious, this had me roaring with laughter and reading out whole pages to whoever was nearby. Faith is such a brilliant character, and I love her nutty take on life. Quick, I need the next one now!
I didn't even finish this book, I couldn't. The main character was annoying and the whole thing was really childish. I didn't like it. It was cheesy and annoying and arrogant. I just couldn't finish it.
20 pages into the book and I gave up! I think I put too much "faith" in this book. The jokes are just so-so and the book is way too childish. i don't like how immature she sounds like and it irritates me so much that I gave up on the book.
This book was amazingly good! A good funny heart warming book with amazing characters!! Is there a book 2? I want to definetley read it Highly recommend it!