by Laura Jarrett
This new YA fiction was a great read and something a little different. The story opens with Louisa trying to pick a new name for herself. Bit by bit the author releases titbits of information about why this teenage girl and her family are now in witness protection and must take on new identities and relocate. Like peeling an onion, we gradually here the story from 'Holly' and the trauma she and her family are going through. She must start a new school and try to make friends, without ever letting slip her real past and the truth about their move. She struggles at first and longs for her former girlfriends support during this difficult time but she knows if she lets out any information she will be putting herself and her family in danger.
It's a great story about new identities and learning who you really are and what really matters. Her sister Katie is autistic and that brings it's own problems but also new understanding. Holly's relationship with a boy, who she thought at first meeting was an Emo, turns out to be just the person to set her on the road to recovery. It gets very exciting at the end so I wont give too much away. I'm sure the teenage girls will love it!
by Jonathan Safron Foer
I must admit I knew nothing about this book and found it rather deep and very unusual. At the time of reading (or letting my Kindle read it to me) I wasn't well so maybe I didn't bond with the story as I usually do. I now know the movie will be released soon so I will watch that to see if it gives me a greater love for the characters, from what I've seen on the trailer I think it will be good.
Oskar is a nine year old boy, who suffers from Autism, and who's father is killed in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. He was let out of school early that day and has a secret he hasn't told anyone. He was the first to come home and hear his father leave 5 phone messages to his family as he was trapped in one of the towers, still alive. They were the last words he said.
Oskar, while going through his father's things, discovers a key in an envelope with the word 'Black' written on it. He believes this is a clue and he decides to look up and track down every person named 'Black' in the phone book. This seems like an unbelievable and unrealistic task but he is determined to do it. Without giving it away too much, he meets several people along the way and he connects with. As I said... I think I'll enjoy the movie more!
by Laura Jarrett
