Review: Be Dazzled by Ryan La Sala

Be Dazzled by Ryan La Sala

Published by: Sourcebooks Fire

Released: 1^st January 2021 (in the US)

ISBN: 9781492682691

Read: 25-26 December 2020

This second novel by Ryan La Sala is different from his first, Reverie, in many ways, but of course, in so many others, it’s familiar. The queerness is alive and well, and it’s great to see a range of orientations represented so positively. Luca’s bisexuality is a major part of the narrative, and it’s welcome in YA.

But as our narrator, Raffy controls what we see, and when we see it. Flashing back has become a real trope, and I have grown weary of it. However, in this story, it serves as a release valve. The events in Raffy’s present timeline start badly and continue to disastrous, so to return to the past where he and Luca lean into their attraction is a glimpse into a happier time. Not that La Sala explains every event and misadventure. No, he leaves spaces for us to ponder: what exactly does Luca see in Raffy? Sometimes it seems as if he’s mostly spending time because of Raffy’s hobbies and flair. Also, the situation that develops with Inaya lacks detail. There is a lot of room for readers to come to their own conclusions, which is the type of book I love to advocate. Too many of them spell everything out and leave teens with little chance to explore ideas and motivations for themselves.

There are many twists and turns in this world of cosplay and costume design. We are treated to absent AND overprotective parenting. Friendships seem constantly on the cusp of breaking down, and Raffy’s own mental state is a thing of concern. But the immersion into this increasingly more mainstream space is fully realized. I have little awareness of manga worlds, devotion to fictional characters through crafting, and the influence of Youtubers and Instagrammers, yet I experienced Raffy’s stress and triumph completely and satisfactorily. This is the power of the author’s writing and his own knowledge and acceptance of the people who inhabit and commit to these fantastical communities. They own their weird and quirky ways, and we are better for such celebrations and joy.

I received this uncorrected proof thanks to Netgalley and Sourcebooks Fire. Highly recommended to teens who enjoy being part of a tolerant and inclusive community. To those who appreciate that breaking up can sometimes be a good thing, and who cheer on the underestimated and underappreciated. Be Dazzled has a wonderfully appropriate cover and comes out (in the US) on New Year’s Day, 2021.

Review: More than Maybe by Erin Hahn

More Than Maybe by Erin Hahn

Published by: St Martin’s Press (Wednesday Books)
Released: 21^st June 2020 (in the US)
ISBN 9781250231642

Read: 20 -21 June 2020

While it’s really important to make sure I read just before I review a book, l also don’t recommend waiting until the day before it’s due to be released either. I am unable to give myself time to ponder the style, the plot or any of those other elements that require some thought before writing a review.

So, just so you know – I just finished More Than Maybe not 30 minutes ago, and I am still aglow with the lovely grand gesture and the perfectly pitched epilogue, and the tremendous bond that is the love between Vada and Luke.

They share the story with alternate chapters. Luke is a British boy, all charm and music nerd, a perfect counterbalance to wannabe music journalist Vada. I loved that they both had secret crushes on each other, which is a bit different to the usual plot where it’s either the boy or the girl who has the long-term crush. Here we see Luke feverishly checking every time Vada posts a new music vlog, and Vada going to sleep listening to Luke’s soothing voice through the podcast he presents with his twin brother, Cullen.

Both have music in their blood – Luke’s father is an ex punk rocker, now mostly retired looking for purpose. Vada’s horrible father used to be the lead singer of a local band. They broke up when drummer Phil quit and Marcus, now insurance salesman, having abandoned Vada’s mother, regularly turns up to Phil’s bar (where Vada works), and tosses around blame and regret while drinking himself to embarrassing levels. He refuses to help Vada financially and still expects her to babysit his new children. I don’t want him to take up any more of the review, actually. He’s basically a nightmare of a character and father.

So while Vada and Luke share secret longings for each other (Cullen and Luke record their show in Phil’s sound booth), neither of them are bold enough to take any steps beyond stumbling small talk. Of course, fate intervenes, by way their class schedule. Vada takes a dance elective, mostly to use the improvisation time to drive out her demons through movement and song. Luke’s music composition class is given the opportunity to create a piece for one of the dance class to choreograph a dance for the end of year final assessment. While Vada dances without knowing Luke is observing, she convinces herself no one will ask to work with her. But there’s no way Luke can pick anyone else!

While in actuality, very little collaboration goes on between them (Luke is able to compose several songs about Vada with very little effort), it does begin a series of texts, sharing stories and adventures, in which they get to know each other, allowing us to see them as well. This includes the acknowledgement that Luke is not interested in a life of performance, even though he has the voice of an angel, and the song writing ability of a legend and the network opportunity his father Charlie is only too willing to exploit. Luke’s decision to keep all his composition work private means he feels misunderstood by his family, and this is played out when Cullen uploads a video of Luke singing a song (secretly inspired by his love for Vada). It goes viral. He denies there ‘is a girl’, and the aftermath of this decision provides much of the drama of the middle of the book.

Hahn develops characters that are authentically teen. Cullen and his boyfriend Zack are more than side characters, as is Vada’s best friend Meg, and all the bar workers – lumbersexual Ben, and dread headed Kazi. I also liked seeing Vada’s mum build her lovely romance with Phil, and Luke and Cullen’s parents as well. Complicated messy families who still work together to overcome their issues are very much welcome in YA fiction.

Hahn drops in many musical references and although personally, I am aghast at Vada’s aggressive dislike for Stevie Nicks (what the?), most of the bands and songs reflect Vada and Luke’s growing relationship and inform much of the plot. Luke’s own songs are raw and when he lets others in, we see his vulnerabilities and how much he’s prepared to do for Vada.

Thanks to publisher, Wednesday Books, and Netgalley for advanced copy. This is a super romantic story with two main characters deserving of the dreams they want to follow. They are usually thoughtful of other people, but yeah, they make mistakes and then try to do better. I have previously reviewed Hahn’s first book, You’d Be Mine, another teen romance involving teen music stars, and I am here for both of them. More than Maybe will be released in the US on June 21. Recommended if you love your fictional boys shy and a little bit broken, your fictional girls feisty and goal oriented, and a range of side characters who try to make our protagonists step up and risk love.

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.

Review: We Used to be Friends by Amy Spalding

We Used to Be Friends by Amy Spalding

Published by: Amulet Books
Released on January 7, 2020 (in the US)
ISBN: 9781419738661

Read: December 28 – 30, 2020

Amy Spalding is a great author. I have read almost all of her lighter, romantic comedies such as Kissing Ted Callaghan (2015) and The Reese Malcolm List (2013), and always enjoyed her fully developed characters and those awkward but often hilarious scenarios that were easy to relate to. Her latest novel We Used to Be Friends, takes a more serious approach to what is often treated as a sub-plot in many YA contemporaries—the friendship between two teenage girls.

James and Kat have been friends forever. But it’s easy to see right from the start, that they are very different people—James is a runner, introverted committed to her five-year plan. Kat is outgoing, popular, living day to day. Her mother died a few years back and her older brother is now away at college, and she just wants the best senior year experience she can have. James, an only child, is the offspring of high school sweethearts and as we start the novel, everything is about to unravel.

We read Kat’s story from the beginning of senior year, right through to leaving home for college. Arriving home after summer break, Kat’s boyfriend confesses to cheating on her ‘because (he) was bored’… and …’it meant nothing’… Dumping him will result in huge changes, including meeting a vivacious girl (so, actually I am bi? Okay then), changing lunch tables and broadening her social circle.

But before we meet Kat, we hear James’s narrative voice. And she begins at the end. She is about to head off to her chosen college, her friendship with Kat is over, and as she leaves her house with her father, she asks if they can drop in to visit mum before we go… what the? It’s all topsy‑turvey. And from there, alternately, we are with Kat as she moves forward to the end of senior year and move backwards with James to the beginning.

I felt more sympathy towards James’s plight, but feel I received more information about Kat’s. Clearly the backwards timeline didn’t satisfy as much especially because there’s a strong sense of anxiety growing as we get closer to the disaster that occurs to completely overwhelm her. Kat’s acceptance of her true sexual orientation and of the new woman in his father’s life never feel as tumultuous as James’s situation. As well, as is reflective of James’s nature, her voice is starker, more direct and not as emotional. Whereas Kat shares and shares (and shares).

There are many gaps in a narrative like this, which I very much appreciate and admire. It’s the author’s skill that allows readers to follow the threads and fill in spaces, and I like a book that keeps me actively engaged. While some might not want to work that hard, rewards are there for people who persist. Of course, my bug bear is again on display—a book like this is much better as a print copy. I wanted to flick back through James’s section when I finally reached Kat’s versions, and sometimes it was impossible to find the corresponding bit (Did James talk about prom? It’s a crucial element of Kat realising how far she and James had lost their way, and I wanted to review James’s input, and no amount of searching took me there).

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for this advanced copy. Highly recommended for readers who want more depth about non-romantic relationships. While both girls’ love interests play a part, the focus is on the breakdown of James and Kat’s inability to reach out to each other when their own world view shifts significantly. It’s a mature read, with discussions about sex and underage drinking at parties. Bisexuality is representative positively, and diversity is strong and convincing. We Used to be Friends is released in the US on January 7. I hope we see it here in Australia soon.

Review: The Love Playbook by Suze Winegardner

The Love Playbook by Suze Winegardner

Published by Entangled: Crush
Released: November 4 2019
ISBN: 9781640638563

Read October 29 – 30 2019

This is unashamedly romantic but following all the tropes doesn’t make it a predictable story. Avery and Lucas swap points of view throughout the book, which allows us to see the secrets they have and those they chose to keep. There are a lot of secrets in this book, and they are not only kept by the two main characters. Each of the secondary characters have their parts to play in ensuring there are lots of misunderstandings, which makes it a pretty tense read.

Lucas’s backstory is detailed and terrible. He has made some seriously bad decisions and he is now paying the cost. Unfortunately, this affects his mother’s life, something for which Lucas finds hard to forgive himself. He is at a very low point in his life, and the appearance of Avery as saviour and support confuses him. He doesn’t know if he’s attracted to her because she seems able to solve some of his immediate problems, and there’s also the issue that she is his new football coach’s daughter which makes her doubly off-limits. It’s a mess all right.

Avery only wants to help her dad. And her brother. Helping Lucas seems like an easy way to do that. But she is also fighting an intense attraction to him, and readers can see they are good for each other, but firstly they will need to be honest. And as we know, this is a long way off. As the tangled webs entwine further, readers will wonder how on earth can they ever find a way to forgive each other once the truths are ultimately spilled.

The story is about football, about a small-town community, about a boy who is treated badly, and about a girl still grieving the loss of her mum. It has depth and we see that life is messy and complicated. These factors lifts it above a simple romance novel where the angst is often superficial and quick to overcome.

The Love Playbook is out on November 4. Thanks to Entangled Crush and Netgalley for advanced copy. Recommended to lovers of teen romance novels, and who love their boys hot yet supportive, and their girls clever and bossy. I enjoyed it a lot.

Review: Any Means Necessary by Candice Montgomery

Any Means Necessary by Candice Montgomery

Published by: Page Street Kids

Released: October 8, 2019 (in the US)

ISBN: 9781624147999

Read: October 6, 2019

I seem to like to pick these books that offer diverse characters. Torrey is a black, gay boy and bloody heck, has his life been tough. We are thrown right in the deep end (just as he is). He has just arrived at his college campus and he receives a phone call from his beloved Aunt Lisa telling him the land on which his bees reside is about to be taken from him due to unpaid land taxes.

There are so many backstories and family threads that Torrey weaves between his narrative of now and present. Sad but realistic situations involving his bed-bound mother (due to a coma), his deceased uncle Miles and his narrow-minded grandfather Theo (one of the reasons the taxes have not been paid). These flow in and out of his worries. One thing, Torrey is an over thinker, a worrier, a boy who burdens the problems of the world. So really, he’s an achiever. He gets things done. But this, it’s way out of his league. Luckily, he has CAKE—four STEM girls, black girls, loyal friends—with knowledge and connections he draws on to try to find a way to keep his bees.

Torrey’s voice is full of modern slang and acronyms. Sometimes I felt quite old, unable to take meaning even with context and a solid vocabulary. But that’s ok. I am old. Younger, hippier and edgier readers will immerse themselves completely in Torrey’s determination and resilience.

The beginning of the novel moved slowly through his first few days of College. He connects to a friend and potential love interest, and his roommate is another support person. He draws the ire of one of his lecturers, who develops into an interesting character, although we can presume she challenges and supports him, unfortunately, the relationship is under-developed.

This is how I felt about the last third of the book, actually. It rushes past and problems are solved quickly, and the love story miscommunication sorted easily. The storyline involving his mother is left open, although we have no doubt how Theo feels (‘and don’t come back!’). I wanted the conclusion to feel stronger. I wanted to see Torrey more grounded, and I wanted to see more of those darned bees!

Thanks to Netgalley and publisher for advancing me a copy. Torrey has really put up with a lot in life, mostly grief and rejection, so he absolutely deserves all the excellent things that come his way. Recommended for readers who like their novels diverse and inclusive. These characters are out of school, and it’s lovely to read about college-aged young adults. We really thought New Adult was going to be a thing, but it seems to have stayed in the romance realm and hasn’t really taken hold in the ‘contemporary issues’ space (let me know if I am wrong here). I loved Torrey and Gabe, Desh, Clarke, Auburn, Kennedy and Emery (the aforementioned CAKE), and Aunt Lisa. They are all terrific people. Any Means Necessary is out on October 8 in the US.

Review: Five Friendship Novels

I keep reading then forgetting to keep notes and write reviews, and then I have nothing new to add to the blog. Oh dear #firstworldbloggingproblems So here are short reviews on five books I recently read, all of which have a focus on friendship, an important element in all teenagers’ lives. They cross a number of different genres, but mostly they are contemporary novels, that resist the temptation to focus primarily on romantic relationships.

Stay Sweet by Siobhan Vivian

Published by: Simon & Schuster
Released: 24 April 2018 (in the US)
ISBN: 9781481452328
Read: 14 July 2018

While there is a developing romance between MC Amelia and Grady, it is the friendship of Amelia and BFF Cate that creates the tension and identity crisis that Amelia faces. She is an extremely likable protagonist, and we see parallels with Molly, original owner of the ice cream stand and the ways her friends supported her. This back and forth through different times reminds us just how much girls have relied on their friends throughout the ages, with female friendships explored in a number of interesting and realistic ways here. I know some readers complain about how acquiescing Amelia is to Cate, but that just shows you the type of girl she is, and consistent characterisation is very important. I am pleased to see that ultimately she stands by her beliefs about the way people should be treated, and the leadership style she has. I found this novel every engaging and inspiring.

 

Tash Hearts Tolstoy by Kathryn Ormsbee

Published by: Simon & Schuster
Released: 1 August 2018 (in AUS)
ISBN: 9781481489348
Read: 9 September 2018

Main character Tash identifies as romantic asexual, so it’s not surprising that there’s a strong interest in how she develops and maintains romantic relationships. But really, it’s her friendships with siblings, Jack and Paul Harlow that create the most interesting elements of the story. Tash also has a very love/hate dynamic with her own sister, Klaudie, and Ormsbee ensures their connection is dealt with in depth and authenticity. We also witness Tash’s interactions with other secondary characters who play roles in her YouTube series, Unhappy Families, and again these are not treated in a trite or contrived way. Tash has a lot going on with her sudden Internet fame, and of course this impacts on all her relationships. The online attraction with Thom is a slow moving beast, and when they finally meet towards the end of the novel, readers are given a most satisfying encounter, and Tash finally recognises her own worth. I loved this complex twisty novel a lot.

Tempests and Slaughters by Tamora Pierce

Published by: Lothian Children’s Books
Released: 13 February 2018 (in AUS)
ISBN: 9780734418678
Read: 14 September 2018

This story of the origins of Numair has been a long time coming, and young people who read Dane’s story will want to come back (even if they are now adults) and read this.

It does have a bit of a Harry Potter feel, in that Arram Draper (as he was known then) spends most of this book at the mage’s academy in Carthak. Spanning four years, from the time Arram is 11 till he’s 14, the story shows us his potential, his connection to his masters, and of course, the friendships he develops with Varice and Ozorne, who as we all know,become great enemies of Numair.

The friendship is paramount to all three. They are the most magical, the cleverest and the youngest of all the mages, and it’s this connection that brings them together. But what keeps them together is their understanding of each other’s weaknesses. There seems to be such a strong foundation, it is hard to believe it will be torn apart, and knowing that it is, it is easy to imagine how devastating that chasm will be for each of them, but mostly for Arram–who is humble, generous and free of any malice or envy. I think this book shows a growth in the author’s writing style. It might sent you back to the Realms of the God quartet. It did that to me.

 

The Lady’s Guide to Petticoats and Piracy by Mackenzi Lee

Published by: Katherine Tegan Books
Released: October 2 2018 (internationally)
ISBN: 9780062890122
Read: September 28 2018

This follow up to The Gentleman’s Guide to Vice and Virtue is set one year after the adventures of Monty, Percy and Felicity. Now from Felicity’s point of view, we witness her failed attempts to be accepted into medical school in Edinburgh. When the person who she trusts and likes, offers to marry her to rescue her from her flights of fancy, Felicity hightails it back to London and imposes on Monty and Percy and starts again.

The narrow defined roles of women only makes Felicity more determined to succeed, and to do this, she must take advantage of a ruined friendship. I utterly loved how flawed the girls are here. They are not martyrs or saints–they are real girls, motivated, opportunistic, each with their own agendas. Fortunately, Felicity’s align with Sim’s. then with Johanna’s, and the growing relationships between these three willful women mean they are stronger, fiercer, and more able to achieve, even though they are constantly thwarted at every turn by narrow-minded, misogynistic, privileged [insert your own rude name here] men.

As you can tell, I loved this a lot. It’s funny (especially when we meet up with Monty and Percy, the adorable and adoring couple), exciting and entertaining. Girl power for the win (eventually)!

Paper Cranes Don’t Fly by Peter Vu

Published by: Ford Street Publishing
Released: August 1 2018 (in AUS)
ISBN: 9781925272765
Read: October 3 2018

I read this because it was the only Gold Inky shortlisted novel I hadn’t read. The day before I picked it up, it won! Chosen by Australian teenagers, this novel beat out Take Three Girls, Beautiful Mess and In the Dark Spaces, and I believe it is the depiction of friendship that makes it a winner for young readers.

Adam’s brain tumour has not slowed him down much. Since he’s a brain rather than a sporty kid, he’s been able to continue schooling, reading and achieving well. This latest trip to the hospital right at the end of Year 12 means his two best friends, Tess and Ambrose, are busy studying and taking exams, while he lives out his days remembering and writing.

Adam is a humble and loyal friend. He takes us back to pre-school when he first met Ambrose and Tess, and then subsequently through various significant events, clearly demonstrating the strength and depth of these friendships. Yes, he meets Rachael, another hospital bound teenager, and re-connects with Rosie, a former book buddy, but it’s Tess and Ambrose who he turns to when he gets bad news, and they don’t let him down. Just to let you know, I cried continuously through the story. It is emotionally powerful and inspiring, depicting courage and love. A strong read.

I highly recommend all these books to you if you want a book about teenagers’ friendships.

 

Review: Just One of the Royals by Leah & Kate Rooper

Just one of the Royals by Leah and Kate Rooper

Published by: Entangled Teen
ISBN: 9781640635760
Released: June 4 2018

Read: May 24 2018

I didn’t read the first book in this loosely connected romance hockey story, but I don’t think it was necessary. This pair of KMUKS (Crazy, mixed-up kids) are best friends of the previous book, and although both couples appear in each other’s stories, they stand alone. I asked for it because I am a bit of a fan of YA hockey romances, and there was enough about Daniel’s team to keep me happy. But of course, it’s primarily about Daniel and Madison.

Daniel is a great character, and his growth through the book an important element. He really has a chip about his illegitimacy and fair enough too. As far as he knows, his father, the King, has not bothered to form any kind of relationship with him. Visiting every summer means he has bonded with his younger sister Eva who is the only reason he agrees to consider becoming King of Eldonia.

Madison brings welcome diversity, although the trope of her (Korean) parents wanting her to do medicine and her having to convince them of her actual dream, is worn thin now. But still, she’s a take-charge kind of girl, and protective of Daniel, which is lovely to see.

I was annoyed that they clearly had feelings for each other, but were too reluctant to take a chance. The fake relationship gives them leeway to pretend to express their real feelings, and that was cute to watch, but dear me it was also agonising when the mis-communication got out of control.

The scenes in the fictional European country are fun, the villain suitably creepy and narcissistic, and the plot twist easy to predict, but it moves at a sprightly pace and ends satisfactorily. If romance is your thing, and you like that added to your hockey stories, then this is the book for you.

Thanks to Entangled Teen Crush and Netgalley for the advanced copy. It was released on June 4 (sorry I am a bit late).

New Release Reviews: April to May 2018

Once again I try to encapsulate some of my reading into reviews over a couple of months. None of these are Australian, but that’s because I want to do a post for them separately.

April Releases

Sam & Isla’s Last Hurrah by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

Allen & Unwin ISBN: 9781760293857

We’ve been done this road before with David Levithan and Rachel Cohn, but Sam & Ilsa’s stories are a bit darker than Nick & Norah’s, Dash & Lily’s or Naomi & Ely’s (just remembering how much I love all these ‘couples’). Here we have twins who are about to lose access to their grandma’s much adored apartment, given she’s sold it. This is their last party in the unit, and they both want it to be a success, a goodbye, a final hurrah. But the thing is, they have different ideas of what that perfect night looks like, and of course, it ends up being something neither of them expected.

Throughout the dual narrative we learn much about their backstories, and how important they are to each other. It doesn’t mean they think the other is perfect—far from it. Ilsa knows Sam struggles with perfectionism, OCD and depression. Sam knows Ilsa thinks he is the favoured child, the one who gets all the attention, and their rivalries and attempts to prove they know what’s best for the other make for amusing and unpredictable reading.

The other guests at the dinner party provide the entertainment. While the book only spans the one evening, we have many flashbacks, so the plot never slows down or becomes repetitious. We are always moving forward to a revelation, and to self-discovery, and the beginnings of the rest of their lives. It’s sobering and insightful, even though the execution is not always successful. The guy with the sock puppet is confusing, and the worry that Sam’s anxiety threatens to overwhelm him, endangers what should be a fun party.

This is very much of story about teenagers on the cusp of great change. They are very self-aware, but still young enough to make  bad decisions. I appreciate that these authors write inclusive books and don’t pander to their audience. It’s a sophisticated read that I loved a lot.

More than We Can Tell by Brigid Kemmerer

Bloomsbury Children’s Books ISBN: 9781408885079

Last year Brigid Kemmerer released Letters to the Lost, and there we met Rev, sidekick and best friend to MC, Declan. It has been excellent that we only had to wait a year to read his story in More Than We Can Tell. I read this for the first time back in October, and had to re-read it just now because, seriously that was over 100 books ago. I loved it even more this second time, and was able to absorb a lot more details, and consider the messages more carefully. This is a well constructed plot with terrific messages for all teenagers.

We knew that Rev had his secrets and a tragic backstory. Learning more about it now makes for an emotional journey for readers. He is matched by fearless Emma, his romantic interest. We are given both points of view and are happy to see them meet outside a church on a day that has been tumultuous for both of them. As strangers, they swap parts of their pain, and it’s interesting to note how astute Emma is. It’s this directness and ability to really see Rev that captures his interest. For her, it’s the way he lovingly treats her dog, and that he challenges her assumptions.

Kemmerer brings a number of different issues into each of their separate lives—Rev gets Matthew, a new foster brother, un-trusting and silent. Emma gets an online troll and a dismantling marriage. These impinge on their time and thoughts, so when they meet up, they find themselves sharing more, and caring more. It’s a lovely slow organic relationship, built over time, and with words.

I liked the way Kemmerer explored the notion of females in an online gaming community. Emma is a game designer, interacting with a diverse crowd, but she remains a flawed sixteen year old—self-absorbed and unwilling to ask for help. Her  distress when everything goes pear shaped seemed a little hysterical initially, but reading it this time, I was more aware that she is unable to contact her nearest and dearest, and acts out of desperation, not selfishness.

Rev’s torturous soul is hard to watch. He lives with shame and the continual thought that he will turn into his despised father. The character of Matthew helps him realise how absurd this is, and of course, Declan is also there to keep him grounded. That bromance is such a positive representation. We need more strong male partnerships in YA, and this is not the first time Kemmerer has created generous boys who treat all people with respect. I applaud her for that. But mostly, I recommend her books because they offer strong plot lines, with real characters, and they make us think.

The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo

Hardie Grant Egmont ISBN: 9781405291460

Here is a verse novel about slam poetry, so the style of writing utterly suits and indeed reflects its subject matter. American-born, but of Dominican heritage, Xiomara and her twin brother Xavier try very hard to live an authentic life with a mother hell-bent on forcing religion and religious lives on them. While Xavier pretty much keeps his head down and hides all his secrets, waiting for a time when he can leave, Xiomara is much less passive. Her sharp tongue and biting wit ensures she is always in her mother’s sights.

This is a glorious novel of insight and power. Xio’s poems challenge our assumptions about body image and identity. Her constant questioning of the status quo is revealing and welcome. She doesn’t deserve to be treated the way she is, and she stands up for herself and eventually triumphs. I highly recommend this to both public and school libraries to be read by all teenagers.

 

In Search of Us by Ava Dellaira
Hot Key Books ISBN: 9781471406515

While this is a family story of mother and daughter, it’s also the stories of two girls on the brink of adulthood. Angie’s present-day story is told alongside her mother Marilyn’s, in the nineties, the same age as Angie. We see the reasons why Marilyn has made the decisions she has, at the same time we see the repercussions for her daughter. The locations are different, the social landscape different, but what remains the same is the search for meaning, for love and for connection.

The prose is beautiful, and the social commentary sharp. As the stories weave around each other, both girls capture our hearts and our sympathies. It’s a really strong novel.

May Releases

The Wonder of Us by Kim Culbertson
Walker Books ISBN: 9781406377170

This is a terrific travel story, so anyone who has traveled around Europe, or who would like to, will appreciate the way the author uses landscape and history to reflect the inner turmoil of two girls who are trying to salvage a friendship. Both want to re-connect after a year apart, but are their differences too great now?

Abby, always a quiet geeky girl, is transfixed by the history, mythology and culture she discovers when Riya brings her to Europe for their ‘grand tour’. Riya, richer and more worldly, wants more than anything to show Abby the places she has only ever read about. But she also has secrets and a stubborn streak. They are also accompanied by Riya’s older, bossier and annoying cousin Neel, and he often interrupts or distracts them from sorting our their issues. There is also a diversity of ethnicity and social status. A book is only enriched by such inclusive consideration.

This story of a crumbling friendship is helped along by the trip, and we cheer for the pair of them to start communicating more, and to find ways to compromise, rather than ways to snipe and fight. I had a good time with it.

The Smoke Thieves by Sally Green
Penguin Books ISBN: 9780141375397

In many ways, this follows a very familiar path traversed in the paranormal genre. We are situated in a country that is ruled by a fearsome and loathsome king whose brother is trying to overthrow him with serious repercussions for the general populace of all the surrounding countries. Rebels and spies are everywhere trying to infiltrate, set to betray. Luckily, our band of heroes have wide range of skills at their disposal, which they need to survive.

But in other interesting ways, it’s quite different. Our five protagonists spend the majority of the book apart, and not all totally committed to the cause. There is the beginnings of a same-sex attraction, and I can count the number of these in fantasy novels for young adults on one hand (ok, lately, maybe two).  The secrets discovered are horrifying in nature, and increase the urgency of our main characters’ actions. By the end, they all have their purposes, some separate, some with another, but the set up for the next book is strong and appealing.

Some of the violence is graphic, and unfortunately, all too easily dismissed as war-time behaviour. However, I engaged with this plucky group, and was happy to travel these somewhat predictable but generally exciting paths with them.

 

 

 

 

Review: Now a Major Motion Picture by Cori McCarthy

Now a Major Motion Picture by Cori McCarthy

Published by: Sourcebooks Fire
ISBN: 9781492652380
Released: April 3 2018 (in the US)

Read: April 16-17 2018

A quality contemporary young adult novel successfully combines a number of converging issues, as well an engaging set of characters and a plot that burbles along evenly. Now a Major Motion Picture starts off as one type of book, then evolves into another and along the way, readers are persuaded to think about several timely matters. McCarthy also manages to infuse the story with meta references, which blends inter-sectional and inter-textual themes effectively. Best of all, the novel is never dragged down by its weighty concerns, managing to balance the heaviness with a strong sense of humour and self-awareness.

Initially, Iris’s resentment at being sent by her father to the set of the film production of her late grandmother’s very popular fantasy trilogy, basically to serve as babysitter to her younger brother Ryder, makes us believe this will be a family drama in which Iris grows as a character, learns things about herself and reconciles with her family dysfunction. And it is that. But it’s also her love story, her guilt story, and her connecting to her past story. Little brother Ryder is pivotal to the family drama, but he is also a connection to the larger world—his attempted kidnapping by a crazed fan of grandma Thorne’s novels has soured Iris’s love for the books, and her parents too. It’s hoped that the film might relieve Ryder of his nightmares, and Iris of her guilt in her role in the kidnapping, but it’s going to take a lot more to solve the problem of their emotionally manipulative father, and their absent mother.

Ireland stands in for the fantasy locations, and it’s in this landscape that Iris finds some peace, and of course, a boy who challenges her self-perception, and her hostile attitude to her grandmother. There are two potential love interests, but this quickly becomes a non-issue, thankfully, and while tensions run hot and cold between our two love-birds, they soon become emotionally connected to ensuring the film gets made, and this bond, as well as their mutual concern for Ryder, means they look out for each other, and make suitable sacrifices to prove their love.

A lot of the story revolves around the adaptation of the book into the film. We are reminded of real life scenarios like Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings, sometimes literally on the page. The constant crossing boundaries of what is real and what is fictional, creates an additional layer of meaning, and fans of these texts will either love it or hate it. There are always so many compromises necessary when adapting a text, and McCarthy seems to have a genuine understanding and I found these sections authentic. She deepens it when the fans intrude into the filmmaking process, and the duality of their passion is again believable and often frustrating. They love the work so much, they actually become a barrier to the production because they fear too many changes, they don’t like the chosen cast, and their viral exploitation of social media impacts on financial resources. McCarthy includes all this seamlessly through the plot, and it never feels like a rant or a plea.

However, there is a soapbox element, which is forgivable because it’s such an interesting and relevant issue. The director of the film, Cate has longed to adapt the novel because it spoke to her as a young female at film school. McCarthy shows us how hard it is for women directors to get their chance, and it’s really moving how much of a role model and mentor Cate wants to be for Iris. Her discussions about feminism, power and political games guide Iris eventually, but along the way, we see how much Cate has put on the line for this film. Her depiction is sympathetic and once again, very timely in our climate of positive change for women and society at large.

Iris navigates this story as a flawed character. She is unhappy, resentful, and full of self-doubt, particularly in relation to her own dreams of becoming a full time musician. While it seems like there is a lot going on, the different issues are all related and converge neatly with Iris gaining much insight into her family’s past, ensuring Ryder is given the opportunity to follow his dreams, and securing the film’s future. Her own happiness is well deserved, and McCarthy does well to not solve all her problems too quickly or conveniently. There’s still a way to go, with her father, the fans of the novel, and her own musical journey. But we leave her in a happy place.

Thanks to Sourcefire Books and to Netgalley for advanced copy. Now a Major Motion Picture did come out in the US a couple of weeks ago, and here in Australia, I urge you to keep an eye out for this complicated, feminist novel. Recommended to readers who like their contemporaries involving and messy. The secondary characters are diverse, and all treated well, with strong backstories. The interplay between the film and the book are familiar to readers who spend time creating their own fantasy cast for a hypothetical movie. It asks passionate fans to reconsider how they use social media, and is often the case, challenges people to always try to be kind. I really enjoyed Iris’s quest.