Review: The Camino Club by Kevin Craig

The Camino Club by Kevin Craig

Published by Duet Books
Released on 6 October 2020 (In the US)
ISBN 9781945053979

Read 26 – 27 September 2020

This is a road trip of a different kind. We follow an eclectic group of teenagers — a little bit delinquent, a little bit neglected, and a lot in need of empathy  — across a section of the Camino Way, a route travelled by pilgrims, through Spain for many centuries. Researching this journey, I discovered that there are quite a few different routes a tourist can choose. Our young Canadians travel from Ponferrada to Santiago de Compostela, (see map below) walking many kilometres a day through amazing landscapes and historic villages, and not for fun, or as part of a school trip. These kids are strangers to each other before they begin what is basically a punishment as a consequence of their (relatively low-level) offenses. It was this or go into Juvenile detention. Not much choice, really, and for one of them, it’s actually on his bucket list!

Picture: https://solitachapter.wordpress.com/2013/04/20/camino-de-santiago-by-solita-chapter-p-r-o-g-r-a-m-a/

Trent, the bucket list offender, is one of three narrative threads, and I think I enjoyed his feisty, no filter, unapologetic voice the most. As an out and proud gay young man, Trent has struggled, yet he remains vibrant and optimistic, and shows a generous big heart. The other two points of view are Diego, a Latino boy raised by his single mother and Abuela, and Shania (not Twain, thank you very much!) a hot headed angry young woman, mostly unlikeable at the start, who develops a crush on Diego, (which, you’ll be pleased to know, is returned).

There are three other teenagers on the pilgrimage – Claire, Manny and Greg – but we only view them through the eyes of the other kids. This means we don’t really get to know them as well. Right at the beginning, Manny and Diego joke about being like The Breakfast Club crowd (hence the pronouncement ‘The Camino Club’), and it is actually a little bit like that: They are a range of ethnicities, with different socio economic backgrounds (& crimes), but ultimately, it is the ways in which they are similar that paves the way to find common ground and bond.

The Camino Clubbers are supervised by Gilbert and Meagan, a pair of counsellors, who keep them on the path (literally), but who are also there as guides and mentors. I can understand the role they are meant to play, but I was disappointed that readers are not given more of these interactions on the page. We are told that the eight of them will assemble at least once a day to share their experiences, unburden their troubles, presumably to develop a group bond. But the focus on encounters between two or three of the group at any one time means that a lot of their individual growth happens through these smaller dialogues, with the group bond developing almost incidentally. Craig also introduces a character called Bastien, an old man who joins them and acts as a parental figure, and while he is genuine, warm-hearted and responsible for many of my tears, I think he diminishes the roles of Gil and Meagan.

I enjoyed walking along these trails with these troubled teenagers. It becomes clear that they have had tough lives, through absent or narrow-minded parents, and through bullying and societal expectations. While it takes them a while (some more than others. I am looking at you Greg!) to face their actions and take responsibility, it’s also hard to imagine that such a trip wouldn’t have a profound effect. The community of pilgrims is tangible, and the demonstration of kindness and inclusivity is palpable, so their eyes are opened up to a world that’s bigger than themselves. They see their behaviours as they are: selfish and reckless, and are challenged to be better. They know now that there are others who have their back. This little group is strong and by the end of the book, we understand they will be okay, especially if they continue to support each other through difficult times.

Thanks to Duet Books and Netgalley for the advanced copy. I have not been lucky enough to journey along the Camino Way, so I loved living vicariously through Trent, Diego and Shania. Recommended for readers who love their protagonists damaged but not broken, who are interested in seeing new places, and who love snarky sometimes shouty conversation. I haven’t mentioned it, but there is also grief here, but the healing is strong with the growth of characters an important part of the story.

Review: Yes No Maybe So by Becky Albertalli & Aisha Saeed

Yes No Maybe So by Becky Albertalli and Aisha Saeed

Published by Simon & Schuster
Released on 4 February 2020
ISBN: 9781471184666

Read: 24 – 25 December 2019

Yes No Maybe So is a thoughtful novel that encompasses a broad range of topical issues, wrapping them in a deliciously cute romance that will appeal to fans of Simon versus the Homo Sapien Agenda, which let’s face it, is practically every living teen on the planet right now. Albertalli’s novels reflect the concerns and celebrate the inclusiveness of this generation, and Aisha Saeed’s contribution to this one will ensure it continues.

Basic plot is simple, but effective. Socially awkward, Jewish white boy, Jamie fears public speaking which is does not bode well for his dream of becoming a politician. Maya, an American-Pakistani Muslim girl, finding herself at a loose end for the summer, for a variety of awful reasons, is encouraged (more like blackmailed) into canvassing for Jordan Rossum, the democratic candidate for her local district election. Her reward at the end? A car. Jamie and Maya were best friends at childcare, over 10 years ago, and when their mothers reconnect and push them together, only one really is keen – Jamie. Maya is on board for the car. Not that she tells Jamie that. Unfortunately.

Slowly, over the summer, they begin to share their fears, but not only that, as Rossum’s campaign gathers momentum, their optimism grows that they might be contributing to a brighter future. They also develop feelings for each other as they reconnect and support each other through family and friendship breakdowns. As you would imagine, they both make terrible mistakes towards the end, hurting each other. But of course, we know once they sit down, hash it out, and actually take some risks, everything will be okay.

Look, it’s adorable.

But more than, it’s a call to arms. Albertalli and Saeed break down American’s political system into digestible chunks that will inform and entertain young readers. Other countries don’t have the exact systems of the US, however, connections can be made and parallels drawn, so that readers can see how corruption and power make it almost impossible for marginalized groups to be heard. The authors are having none of that. They make it clear that individuals can all do his or her (or their) bit to defeat racists, bullies, homophobes, or whoever else stomps on the rights of others. It’s inspiring stuff, and it never sounds preachy. The two main characters always feel like teenagers—awkward, powerless, and prone to impulsive acts and words—so their insights and observations feel true. They genuinely realise that helping local communities, uniting under a common belief despite differences, and working towards a single purpose is uplifting and exciting.

There are many complications that aren’t even touched on here. Messy family situations, the role of the media and the lasting impacts of social media, the additions of terrific animals, and the eventual realization of strong feelings make Yes No Maybe So an engaging and triumphant reading experience. I have no doubt any teenager will love its message and the way the message is delivered.

Thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for advanced copy. I believe it’s out everywhere on February 4^th. Highly recommended for contemporary book lovers, who enjoy well developed characters bumbling around trying to be their best selves. Who love inclusive stories that don’t shy away from tackling big subjects, but in a readable manner that isn’t heavy handed. I found it really hopeful and loved the way it presented options for teenagers who might be feeling overwhelmed by the constant barrage of negativity offered by mainstream media outlets.

Lists: Best of 2017 Names

When I started this process, I went through my 5 stars reads on GR, and no kidding, the first four books I listed, went like this: Eliza, Jane, Ramona, Alex, and WOW, that’s a statement right there. Four of my favourite 2017 books had the name of the main character in the title. In interesting and innovative ways too.

I have reviews here for Jane, Unlimited (August) and Ramona Blue (May). Gosh they are both such good books and my reviews try to explain why I liked them so much.

I added The Names they Gave us by Emory Lord (June) here as well, because well, it fits, right? It was such a pleasure to read. This author is really capturing the spirit of a quality contemporary. It’s got layers, and flawed characters, but it also addresses topic issues well. Here is what I wrote for RSO:

Protagonist Lucy, has a fresh voice. She’s a strong believer, but finds herself questioning her faith.  Working with counsellors who have their own troubled and diverse pasts, she is challenged to confront her privilege, and some of the honest conversations in which she engages, provide insight that many teenagers will appreciate. Looking after young children who face adversity allows Lucy’s kind spirit and resourceful nature to surface, giving her validation in a time when she feels insecure and abandoned. Her transformation is a joy and a heartbreak to watch.

The majority of the book takes place over June and July and the rhythms and routines of camp life are vivid and some of the episodes—an epi pen emergency, a scrabbling sixth graders’ fight, and a shy girl needing reassurance—intertwined neatly and organically with Lucy’s weekly visits with her mother, and her own reflections about belief and the best ways to live a life.

While it deals with big issues, it is by no means heavy or dark. Lucy is an optimist, and a thoughtful girl. She faces each new encounter with empathy and kindness. She’s not perfect, but she wants to be better, and is generous and honest. There are many light moments, although eventually Lucy does confront some well hidden family secrets, and is fortunate to now have the type of friends who support her through these shocks and shifts. It concludes satisfactorily, with some aspects neatly tied up, and others left more open.

Alex, Approximately (April) by Jenn Bennett is a sweet romance perfect for summer beach reading. There are several tropes in play, and as all the reviews say, a YA version of You’ve Got Mail. MC Bailey has been virtual friends with Alex for a while, bonding over a common love of classic movies. When she moves to his town, she meets and flirts with Sexy Porter. A dilemma develops–should she seek out unknown Alex, or stick with real Porter? Predictable it might be, but it’s also full of geeky references, with lots of humour and snark, so it’s a pleasure to read. There are also a couple of swoony, smexy scenes, if that’s your thing.

Eliza and her Monsters by came out in May but I didn’t read it till October. There are very strong positive reviews about this book, and there’s reasons that. It handles anxiety and unwanted celebrity status very well. Eliza’s anonymity means she’s free from judgement or expectation, and suddenly losing that threatens her mental health. But this doesn’t happen until the end of the novel, so for the most part, we watch Eliza meet cute guy, Wallace, and slowly venture out and interact with peers socially.  These are mighty steps for her, and we gradually realise the implications of being ‘outed’ as the creator of a very popular online fantasy serial novel. It’s a book for lovers of fan fiction, and the communities that develop around online creative arts. This is another book that presents an artistic life as a genuine pathway.

So, here are my favourite list of names books. Next Wednesday I will share my list of best spec-fic picks.

Lists: Best of 2017 LoveOzYA 2

I couldn’t limit myself to only 6 Australian novels, but I could manage 12. Here are my first 6.

I reviewed three of these here, over this year: Valentine (January), Before You Forget (January) and Wilder Country (August). They are very different in style and genre, but they all depict a strong main character who has to deal with big questions. They are each distinctly Australian, either by voice or location, and they all offer an authentic teenage experience.

I went back to RSO to see what I said about My Lovely Frankie, and it’s a fairly extensive review, so I impulsively added it here yesterday. I am not sure which teen is going to pick it up, but it won’t be that cover that puts them off! I found the story mesmerising and gentle.

The other two are well reviewed on GR and other places. But just quickly, here are some thoughts of mine.

Night Swimming by Steph Bowe (April)

Kirby lives in the smallest country town in Australia, according to her best friend Clancy who is ready to flee to be a musical theatre star, and his snark and vibrancy keep Kirby from moping about too much. Everyone wants Kirby to leave too, but she’s less sure of that, especially when her grandfather starts to exhibit signs of memory loss and dementia.

Kirby is going through a lot, yet Bowe’s writing style is laconic and breezy. She allows Kirby’s fears about her family to filter through a lens of humour and rebellion. She doesn’t want to follow expectations, or hurt anyone, but she does have things to figure out, including her feelings about her absent father, and the new delectable arrival, Iris.

This gentle story is full of heart and optimism. Kirby is slow to act, but her thoughts are generous and self-effacing. It’s the small details that gives this story depth – the mysterious crop circles, and why they appear, the carpenter with a casual approach to Kirby as apprentice, the animals, all as important to Kirby as people, and of course, Clancy’s one-night-only extravaganza musical performance. The whole town comes alive under Bowe’s skillful hand, and it’s impossible not to get caught up in their stories.

Ballad for a Mad Girl by Vikki Wakefield (May)

Grace’s narration is strong if not always reliable. Wakefield continually plays on the meaning of ‘mad’, so that by the end, we have been twisted and turned like a broken spiral. There’s a mystery to solve, friendships to patch, and a brother who is impossible to know. Grace’s grief about her mother’s death scars her actions, and ultimately we are left with more questions than answers. Well, I was.

It really is a tour de force and I am intrigued to see the next direction Wakefield takes. I know I don’t explain anything here about the plot, but it is best to read this unspoiled.

My (other) favourite 6 Australian novels will be posted on Friday.

Review: My Lovely Frankie by Judith Clarke

My Lovely Frankie by Judith Clarke

Published: Allen & Unwin
Published: July 1 2017
ISBN: 9781760296339

Read: April 21 2017

In an age where it is hard not to judge the Catholic Church for its reprehensible actions against children, My Lovely Frankie offers a different point of view. True, the teachers of the seminary are exactly as you’d expect – inflexible, pious, and judgemental– but into that narrow, repressed world comes narrator, Tom, and the aptly coined lovely Frankie.

Frankie is exactly the type of priest who would be accepted and appreciated today. But in the 1950s, he stands out as too earthly, too empathetic, too much in the present. Frankie celebrates nature, he listens to (lay) people, he smiles at everyone. These qualities are condemned, and leave him open to envy and anger. Quiet, solitary Tom understands that Frankie is at risk, he’s just not sure why or from whom.

The build up to Frankie’s disappearance combines the story at the seminary, a look back to how both boys arrived there, and as well, we see and hear from Tom in the future, as he is now, old and content, presiding over a small country town parish, accepting of his attraction to Frankie, and its implications. It’s a mastery of structure and storytelling that each of the timelines flow naturally into each other, and that as patient readers, we let Clarke guide us gently through the joys of Frankie’s life, and the tragic consequence of jealousy and ambition.

Today’s young people are more secular and less knowledgeable about how Church doctrine impinged on many aspects of people’s lives. The ‘50s and ‘60s weren’t so long ago, but Australia’s societal and cultural norms have shifted significantly. This look back is almost like viewing a different country. It provides teenagers with another narrative to add to the one they get from today’s media about the role and impact of institutional religion.

Review originally written for Riverbend Standing Orders.

Lists: Best of 2017 LGBTQIA

It’s been a strong year for queer YA, and I think the release of the film, Love, Simon, based on Becky Albertalli’s Simon Versus the Homo Sapien Agenda has something to do with that, and will open doors for even more literature depicting positive representations of all sorts of teens, but particularly those who sit somewhere on the queer spectrum. You’ll actually find other LGBTQIA books on my other lists too.

Future Leaders of Nowhere by Emily O’Beirne (March) I have been raving about O’Beirne’s books for a couple of years now. Contemporary Australian coming-of-age stories about gay girls that have a fresh voice. I reviewed both Future Leaders, and its sequel, All the Ways to Here (November) here. Willa and Finn are searching for meaning and stability. They support each other, and are stronger for their love for each other.

Noteworthy by Riley Redgate (May) I don’t know if this is readily available in Australia, but look out for it. It’s such a strong novel with a poor Asian scholarship student transforming herself to a boy to join an all male an elite a cappella octet called the Sharpshooters. I think it’s the longest review on here. God, I loved this. Interestingly, MC Jordan’s possible bisexuality is not the biggest question of the story. Read with glee (sorry, can’t help myself).

The Upside of Unrequited by Becky Albertalli (April) A companion novel to Simon Versus the Homo Sapien Agenda, Albertalli introduces twins Mollie and Cassie, who each deal with issues, primarily romantic endeavors, that are equally sweet and thoughtful. Again, this novel is filled with inclusion elements, and a powerful overriding sense of celebrating who you are. Can’t wait for her collaboration with Adam Silvera.

Release by Patrick Ness (May) A deeply personal, intimate story, Ness shows us one day in the life of Adam Thorn. Set in small town America, Adam is the son of a preacher, and is about to say goodbye to his first love. As he experiences this day of tumultuous highs and lows, Adam shows us what helps him through: a best friend, a new love, and his own strength and resilience. It wouldn’t be Patrick Ness without a parallel story of the ghostly  kind. It’s dense and dark, but ultimately hopeful.

We are Okay by Nina LaCour (February) I keep going on about this one. My review was posted at Children’s Books Daily.

The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee (June) For a book that I loved so much, I have not raved about it much. But it’s been getting rave reviews everywhere else, and was voted one of the top books in the Young Adult Fiction 2017 GR Choice Awards. My short review is here.

My mystery list which was actually supposed to be posted today will be published on Sunday.

 

Review: The Inexplicable Logic of my Life by Benjamin Alire Saenz

The Inexplicable Logic of my Life by Benjamin Alire Saenz

Published by: Clarion Books
ISBN: 9780544586505
Released: March 7 (US) May 1 (Australia) Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Books

Read: March 6 2017

There’s a lot that’s celebratory and inspiring in Saenz’s books. They are full of love and honesty, and while the characters go through many troubles and upheavals, they are surrounded by good people who love them.

But there are problems too. Issues that I miss are pointed out in other reviews, so if you are interested in looking at, and considering aspects of the book that have offended others, there are lots of 1 and 2 star reviews at Goodreads.

I want to focus on what’s good about this book because there’s plenty of that. Sal lives with Vicente, a gay man who was best friends with Sal’s mother, was there at Sal’s birth, and who agreed to look after him after Sal’s mother dies. Theirs is a particularly effective and affecting relationship. Sal recognises that not everyone is lucky enough to have what he has–an open and trusting bond that grows even stronger over the course of this long and somewhat rambly book.

Both Sal’s best friends, Sam and Fito both have mothers who neglect them, and no strong father influence in their lives. It’s fitting that Saenz includes Sal’s grandmother Mimo, because really most of the females  lack any substance of positive representation. We can say they love their children ‘in their own ways’, but really that flatters them, and I am not sure they deserve even that.  Sal is constantly wondering how two smart and resilient young people could have developed from such tough childhoods.

He wonders about that, because he is also focused on his own genetic makeup. He has started to get into fights, and spends a lot of his internal monologues wondering how much darkness he has, as part of his DNA, considering Vicente is not at all violent or rough. Nurture versus nature. It’s a terrific exploration, and Sal’s concluding thoughts are worthwhile and true.

The three teenagers suffer too much grief. If I have a quibble, it’s that there is so much death in this book. But it gives them a chance to be there for each other, to gather their sadness and longings, and to look forward, to try to make the best of the good things they have. I am happy to say that Sal acknowledges when moments are happy, and doesn’t dwell on the bad times. Instead he tries to have perspective and hope.

There’s all sorts of diversity, inclusiveness, and great flawed characters, both adult and teenaged. It is a long book, with little plot, charting the days of Sal’s final year of high school. The three friends grow and learn, and are ready to face their futures by the end. It’s lovely.

Thank you to Clarion Books and Netgalley for approving this book. Out in the US earlier this week, and available in Australia in May.

Recommended to readers who enjoy their stories full of warmth and love. They must also accept that death is a natural and inevitable progression, and that some people’s lives are harsher and more unjust than others. There’s a lot of discussion about parental responsibility, and the meaning of friendship, and it’s light on romance and melodrama.

 

 

 

Review: Life in a Fishbowl by Len Vlahos

Life in a Fishbowl by Len Vlahos

Published by: Bloomsbury
Released: January 12
ISBN: 9781408870631

Read: December 12 2016

 

This is a sad book. Using the tragic occurrence of Jared Stone’s brain tumour, Vlahos puts his family through a series of unmitigated events designed to horrify and appall readers. He pushes our boundaries of decency, and makes us realise these are not unrealistic ideas of a fanciful novelist, but are in fact, part of the everyday in contemporary society.

What does that say about the human condition? While Vlahos keeps us entertained and amused, he is also challenging us about how accepting we are when it comes to morally ambiguous behaviour. We think we are powerless, that people with the money and influence control the way the world works, but characters like Jackie, Jared’s daughter, and Hazel Huck, show us that it’s people with passion and determination who can change the course of events, and make a difference. For good, I mean.

The plot is simple. Jared discovers he has a brain tumour, it’s inoperable, and by the time he realises, it’s already destroyed some of his rational thinking neurons, so in order to provide for his family after he dies, Jared decides to auction his life on eBay to make some money.

The plot isn’t important. It’s the way we are led into the minds of Jared’s family, and the people who want exploit him that is the focus. Each villain is given a chance to explain his or her actions. They all feel completely justified in their decision to take advantage of this man who just wants to take care of his family. It’s despairing stuff.

But there are also people who want to help. So Vlahos goes someway to balance the evil with the good. I love how technology is depicted, as both ways to abuse people’s trust (reality TV programs, and cyber-hacking), as well as ways to support it (Online communities). The Internet itself isn’t inherently bad, it’s how people choose to use it.

I haven’t talked about the point of view of the tumour we are also given. Glio, as we come to know it, is probably the most poignant part of the novel. We glimpse Jared’s memories it devours—all the thoughts and associations that make him human, that make him Jared, and it’s painful. Mostly because Glio is merely following its own genetic code. There’s no intended malice, but it’s so malicious, so tragically unfair, we can’t help assigning blame and condemning it as the corrupting influence.

Anyway, Life in a Fishbowl is a complicated detailed and subversive novel. Its length is due to the many narrative voices, all given free reign to tell stories, remember past events, and build defenses of their (mostly) selfish and greedy actions. Thankfully Jackie is strong for her father, and ultimately, we see her triumph. It’s worth the journey.

Thanks to the publishers via Netgalley who provided access to this early ARC. Released January 12th, 2017.

Recommended to readers who prefer their books edgy and hard-hitting, with unapologetic authors who refuse to pander to stereotypes or follow predictable formats. Multiple narrators who often go off-road with little regard for plot. Unconventional conclusion, with no romance.

 

Best of 2016: Historical

Although a novel can be set in a different time, and be regarded as ‘best of’ in another category, there are still three books I read this year that are the best because of their historical context. These authors comment on the ways of the period, but also include a connection to our own time. Reflecting on our time can be valuable when seen though the lens of another. Others that I enjoyed that don’t appear on other lists include: V for Violet and Wolf Hollow.

Front Lines by Michael Grant (March 2016)

Michael Grant gained many fans with his Gone series, and have veered off into a different direction with Soldier Girls. He talks a little about that change in an interview he did for Reading Time. This alternate timeline set in World War II offers a realistic version of a world where females were allowed to fight in the front lines. Grant sticks authentically to many factual events and values of the time period, so there is many examples of sexist, racist and cultural inappropriateness, which of course add to the obstacles standing in the way of our five heroes. The girls come from different socio-economic, ethnic, and religious backgrounds, but they are all determined, brave and intelligent. The story is detailed, absorbing, and does not wimp out on the horrors facing soldiers in wartime.

The Passion of Dolssa by Julie Berry (April 2016)

I loved every bit of this complicated and confronting story set in Medieval France. Its look at the way the Catholic Church dealt with heresy and so-called witches is both gruesome and clever. Berry excels at witty, original characters, and her research is impeccable. I wrote a long gushing review at Reading Time. I cannot recommend this sophisticated, important book enough. It’s amazing.

My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, & Jodi Meadows (September 2016)

Contemporary takes on historical characters and events have been around a while. Inserting zombies into Pride and Prejudice, turning Queen Victoria into a demon hunter, and Lincoln to a vampire slayer has meant that literary classics are fodder for YA updates. Choosing Lady Jane Grey, queen for only 9 days, is an inspired choice for a number of reasons. She isn’t well known, there is real pathos in her short life, and how wonderful is it to recreate history magically to give Jane a happy-ever-after. It’s a bit silly, totally irreverent, and so much fun to read.

On Wednesday my musical high notes will be posted.

Best of 2016: First in a series

There were as many new series started as there were finished in 2016. I am sure many of you can add to this list in the comments with your favourites. I read quite a few (and dnf’ed some of them) so when they all begin to blur into each other, a book that stands out, and makes me wish for the next one will make it to the list. Other ones that just missed out: Lady Midnight, Knights of the Borrowed Dark, & The Girl from Everywhere.

Rebel of the Sands by Alwyn Hamilton (February 2016)

Just won best debut novel on Goodreads, so that says something about it. I loved the Arabian night style setting, its rebels with many causes, and Amira herself is snarky and brave. The plot twists around and leads us in unexpected directions. Looking for to Number 2, (which I actually already have thanks to Netgalley).

The Road to Winter by Mark Smith (June 2016)

A well crafted Australian post-apocalyptic survival story, set in the not-too-distant-future. Finn is a admirable protagonist, full of resilience and moral character. His attempts to save Rosie and find her missing sister make for a suspenseful, action-packed thriller. Better though is the insightful comments about the direction Australia is heading, and it’s not pretty. Short, tight and worth the fast, furious ride.

The Crown’s Game by Evelyn Skye (July 2016)

Another fantasy novel that is grounded with historical detail, and a strong sense of setting. Imperial Russia has never looked so magical. Nico and Vika know they have to fight for the right to be the only enchanter, and the crown’s game pits them against each other. Of course, there’s a love story, and a third love interest, so it’s all very complicated. But the magic the two create is a highlight in this tense duel to the death.

Come back on Monday when I talk about my favourite historical novels of 2016.