A review by beatniksafari
Pinned by Sharon G. Flake

3.0

Although the characters, especially Adonis, did not grab me until the very end, I think my middle school students might enjoy this story of identity and romance. Both Adonis and Autumn face challenges: he's academically gifted and articulate, but in a wheelchair, while she's a brilliant wrestler, a vivacious friend, and a skilled cook, but struggles with math and reading. Despite, or because of, Autumn's persistence, Adonis does not want any connection to a girl he perceives as imperfect. However, she has learned from her athletic training never to back down. I would have liked a more sympathetic character in Adonis, whose constant put-downs and bitterness made me wonder what on earth Autumn saw in him. Autumn is easier to love and understand, and will appeal to the same students who continue to read "The Skin I'm In," by the same author, with such fervor.