Bounce by Natasha Friend

 

Evyn lives with her father, Birdie, and her brother, Mackie. For as long as she can remember, they have been happy together, despite her mother having passed away. When Birdie announces that he is going to get married and that they will have to move to Boston, away from Evyn's whole life and best friend, she is shocked. Everything seems foreign to her, and she just wants to have her old, familiar life back - not this confusing mess her father has put her in.

 I thought this was an alright book. The author did a good job of conveying Evyn's distress and horrible feelings at having to leave everything she knows and loves behind. However, I thought some of the characters were not realistic, and there was an insignificant amount of character development. The story was still fun to read, and Evyn slowing coming to accept the changes in her life was also interesting. However, I felt as if the book was geared towards younger readers. Overall, this was an ok novel, but not something I'd go out of my way to read.

Reviewed by NK, Grade 10

Montrose Library

On the Fence by Kasie West

Having lost her mother at a young age, Charlie Reynolds spent most of her childhood with her older brothers, who have had a strong influence on her life. She is very athletic, and partakes in any sport or game that her brothers play. When Charlie receives speeding tickets, she is told by her father that she must pay for them herself. At her new job, Charlie is exposed to makeup and wearing girly clothes. As time wears on, she begins to incorporate them more and more in her everyday life. Because of her new work schedule, Charlie finds it difficult to sleep, and goes for a walk in her backyard. By chance, her neighbor and childhood friend, Braden, is there, too. The two continue meeting at the fence late at night to talk, and slowly, Charlie realizes she’s fallen for him.

I liked this book since I first found it because the story overall was appealing. Now that I have finished reading it, I only like it all the more. The romance in this novel is wholesome and it makes the reader feel positive emotion. Aside from romance, the author adds in suspense by including a tragic family history and how the Reynolds family had to cope with it. The reader gets to see the main character evolve into the best version of herself, with an accompaniment of hilariously relatable scenarios. I would recommend this book to anyone that enjoys a good Romantic Comedy. 

Reviewed by anonymous, Grade 11

Glendale Central Library