Book Review: Read Between the Lines

READ BETWEEN THE LINES by Jo Knowles explores the ordinary live of people in a small town from ten different perspectives.

While the characters from the various chapters interconnect, each chapter stands alone and contributes to the “read between the lines” theme. While this quiet work of young adult contemporary fiction, lacks the memorable personalities and powerful social commentary of many popular YA novels, the slice-of-life approach will appeal to those seeking a straight-forward drama.

Reluctant readers who enjoy realistic fiction may be drawn to the short vignettes told by various voices. However, the lack of “over-the-top” drama may lose some readers.

For librarians seeking middle-of-the road realistic fiction for teens, this is a good choice. However, don’t look for it on the bestseller lists.

To learn more about the author, go to http://www.joknowles.com.

Published by Candlewick Press March, 2015.

Book Review: King Dork Approximately

KING DORK APPROXIMATELY by Frank Portman is the long anticipated sequel to the 2006 young adult cult-classic KING DORK.

Once again, the author is able to successfully channel the sarcastic male adolescent. This coming-of-age story pokes fun at everything from public education to teen love. Teen readers who enjoyed the music and cultural references in the first book will be happy to see these elements in the sequel. However since it’s been a decade since the first book was published, so it’s difficult to predict what today’s youth will think of the vinyl vs CD debates and clunky cellphones.

Picking up where the first book leaves off in 1999, the story meanders through a series of subplots including a first girlfriend and band show, but lacks the engaging plot of the first book. However the “slice-of-life” approach is likely to appeal to it’s anti-establishment audience.

What to have some fun? Participate in Figment's writing contest associated with the book. Go to http://dailyfig.figment.com/2014/11/21/king-dork-approximately-contest/.