|
Sarah Dessen has done it again. Excellent book by an excellent author. Yet, she finds out that not only is she "good enough," but she's actually a worthwhile human being.
(I've read at least five out of the nine the publishers show on the inside cover of this book). In fact, her characters are so sympathetic, that I had to read ahead to make sure Nate, Ruby's friend, is going to be okay. She's kept me up all night, reading one of her books.
That's what I love about all of Sarah's books - her protagonists come alive for me, and Ruby is definitely one of my favorites. Lock and Key is one of her longer books, and much more complex emotionally. The theme of the definition of "family," runs throughout it, and like her other books, the protagonist narrator does not think she's good enough for the people around her.
I worried right along with Ruby. Thanks, Sarah.
Ruby is abandoned by an alcoholic mother who cannot cope with life, while Nate seems to be the "extra" child in a divorce where Mom has moved on to a new life and Dad is too busy to be a dad. THis is a beautifully written young adult book by a wonderful writer. In both cases, they are the outsiders in a posh school, and both struggle with feelings of self-worth. The book rings true, moves quickly and has all the elements that most teens like and are interested in -- a little bit of romance, some drama and a long and involved look at what makes someone a parent and what makes people a family. THe two main characters, Ruby and Nate, both struggle with extraordinarily difficult family circumstances. The book takes place over the course of nearly a year, as Ruby struggles to adjust to living with her older sister and her husband, and to redefine who she is and the dreams she has for her future. ALthough the subject matter is tough, the friendships are beautifully rendered, and the subject matter is ultimately hopeful and uplifting.
The beginning was fantastic. It could my attention immediantly from the start and did not let me let go of it.The middle was suspenseful.The ending was only slightly disappointing, but overall, I was still very impressed with the bookThe story was original and fabulously told. Fabulously. A good book, a definite recommendation of mine.
Dessen did it again. She was able to connect unique characters and an fresh plot. This novel is one of her best works, yet.
the characters in this book had real problems, which may be why it was easy to connect with them. i rarely cry.ever. but i cried while reading this book.i stayed up until 4 am reading, and even after i finished, i still cant stop thinking about it.
|
