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4.2 AVERAGE
4.2 AVERAGE
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
reflective
sad
medium-paced
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I read this book because it's the book chosen by my child's middle school as the book of the year-for the one book one school initiative. I found it to be a quick read, but quite sad. There are many references to older books, i.e. there is one chapter called "Are you there God? It's me Carley?" & other cultural phenomena like the Broadway play "Wicked." I don't think most of the intended audience for this novel will necessarily get the references, so in a way it read like a middle grade novel for adults. I think the school could have chosen a more relevant i.e. relate-able book for the students. I would recommend many other books before this one
I rarely give anything five stars. I read the first chapter online somewhere and had to keep going. This book is about family, understanding, forgiveness, love... It ripped at my heart strings and I could barely finish it for all my crying. But don't let that stop you. It was a deeply satisfying book on so many levels. I'd recommend this to kids who feel like they don't belong, or are struggling with their parents, or anybody who just wants to read truly fleshed out characters and genuine, believable sentimentality.
I knew from the first few chapters that I would end up liking this book--became a fast, enjoyable read. It revolves around a twelve-year-old girl who is put into a foster family until her mother, who is in the hospital from an abusive situation, gets better.
I haven't read many books dealing with this situation, but it seemed to be pretty accurate, especially when it came to the main character's reactions. It was easy to sympathize for poor Carley. Even when she was being bratty, I could still understand that she was reacting this way out of pain. I really liked her character's development. I almost teared up near the end.
The Murphys were portrayed as the family that Carley never had, but who still had their own issues. I particularly liked Mrs. Murphy and the two youngest boys, though I did like the relationship between Mr. Murphy and Carley's friend (it was amusing). Carley and Toni also had an interesting relationship that I enjoyed seeing change.
I have to admit that I'd hoped the ending would be different, but it still ended on a good note. It makes me wish that this book had a sequel or was part of a series--it would be cool to see Carley as she ages.
A great book for young readers that explores what it really means to love unconditionally.
I haven't read many books dealing with this situation, but it seemed to be pretty accurate, especially when it came to the main character's reactions. It was easy to sympathize for poor Carley. Even when she was being bratty, I could still understand that she was reacting this way out of pain. I really liked her character's development. I almost teared up near the end.
The Murphys were portrayed as the family that Carley never had, but who still had their own issues. I particularly liked Mrs. Murphy and the two youngest boys, though I did like the relationship between Mr. Murphy and Carley's friend (it was amusing). Carley and Toni also had an interesting relationship that I enjoyed seeing change.
I have to admit that I'd hoped the ending would be different, but it still ended on a good note. It makes me wish that this book had a sequel or was part of a series--it would be cool to see Carley as she ages.
A great book for young readers that explores what it really means to love unconditionally.
Really touching. Although the lack of involvement from the Social Worker/any other "official" party felt off, Carley's struggles rang true. A good weep fest at the end!
Every single time I read this book I love it. From Carley's humour to Micheal Eric's cuteness to Julie Murphy's well, awesomeness. I really want to read 'Fish In A Tree' by Mullay Hunt.
Parts of it were hard to listen to as an adult; can't imagine how a child would take certain portions. The abuse scenes are not graphic but not glossed over either. However as a true book for children; not necessarily tidy and happily ever after ending but hopeful.
That was a cover to cover read. Could not put it down.
I love this book very much. I felt a very strong character connection to Carly, every emotion I felt.
challenging
emotional
hopeful
sad
fast-paced
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Gosh this was good. And heartbreaking. And so good. Just beautifully done. Quick read, and heartwarming too. Now to go sob into my pillow.