Joseph Ruben

This was the 2nd in a trilogy, following the author's first in the series, Make Lemonade. Though there were a few references to occurrences in the first book, this could easily be read as a stand-alone. I read this one on audio, and though you may lose some of the effect of it being written in verse by ear-reading, I enjoyed the reader & thought it presented well on audio.

LaVaughn is an inner-city teen, struggling with some inner-city problems, as well as typical teenage angst. Her mother show more begins dating. She is beginning to grow further apart from her two best friends. The boy she likes is giving her mixed signals. This book is written for a young teen audience, and I think it addresses the issues well. However, as an adult reading this, I found myself thinking that it was a little out-of-touch with the reality of inner city teenagers today. But again, I think that was largely for the benefit of the intended reading audience. Still, it was a quick & enjoyable read & I plan to read the last in the trilogy. show less

This movie feels a little cheesy/campy 35 years after its release, but it still does offer an nice message about an abused woman empowering herself.

2023 Movie #12. Laura (Roberts) executes her plan to escape her abusive husband (Bergin) by faking her death in a boating accident. She almost gets away with it. Not a great film although Roberts is great. The critics hated it but it was the 7th highest grossing movie in 1991.