Ali Benjamin
This book is hands down my favorite of 2015, but The Crossover (see earlier review) is definitely another top contender! The story is from our main character, Suzy's, point of view. Suzy is starting seventh grade, and beginning the school year after a tragic summer: her best friend Franny died over vacation. Automatically one may guess that the book is depressing and "heavy," but because of the strong voice of the likable main character, it never succumbs to the maudlin.
Being in a middle school every day, I loved how the author described middle school girls trying to fit in and how friendships are like a lifeblood to young girls. Unfortunately, Suzy and her best friend are not on good terms before Franny's death, and it leaves Suzy with many things unsaid, and regrets. The biggest question for Suzy however, is "Why?" Why did her friend die? How did it happen? Unable to accept her mother's answer, "sometimes, things just happen" Suzy retreats into a world of silence and stops speaking. She delves into the world of science, and researches jellyfish, as she believes the poison from one could have killed her friend.
The writing is poetic and beautiful, and students will not be "bogged down" by a slow pace, even though the story is thoughtful and reflective. I came away feeling so much for Suzy I couldn't help but have a good cry by the end. Give this book a try and take an amazing journey!
New York Times Book Review: READ HERE
Being in a middle school every day, I loved how the author described middle school girls trying to fit in and how friendships are like a lifeblood to young girls. Unfortunately, Suzy and her best friend are not on good terms before Franny's death, and it leaves Suzy with many things unsaid, and regrets. The biggest question for Suzy however, is "Why?" Why did her friend die? How did it happen? Unable to accept her mother's answer, "sometimes, things just happen" Suzy retreats into a world of silence and stops speaking. She delves into the world of science, and researches jellyfish, as she believes the poison from one could have killed her friend.
The writing is poetic and beautiful, and students will not be "bogged down" by a slow pace, even though the story is thoughtful and reflective. I came away feeling so much for Suzy I couldn't help but have a good cry by the end. Give this book a try and take an amazing journey!
New York Times Book Review: READ HERE