I managed to get an early reviewer copy of this book. I'm a high school librarian, so I was very excited to share it with my students. Well, I can't write a review about it from my perspective yet because the darned kids won't bring it back! I gave it to one of my better readers (16 years old), and she LOVED IT! She has been passing it around to all of her friends, and the reviews they are giving me are very positive. They mention the exciting car chase scene and the unusual characters that Tick encounters. They are already anxious for the second book!
I will write my own review once I get it back, but the way it looks, it might be awhile!
I will write my own review once I get it back, but the way it looks, it might be awhile!
This review was written for LibraryThing Early Reviewers.
Wow! I may be naive, but I did not anticipate this ending at all. I guess that's why I like who-dun-its; I'm always surprised.
Way does exceptional work here with imagery and phrasing. You feel the heat and the filth and the fear of the characters as the summer moves to its conclusion. The look back with the help of the psychiatrist is effective because you know the ending and who dies...at least you think you know...until the absolute end.
This is a slim volume will stick with you, particularly if you work with young people. We know these kids, and the unspeakable violence is not that remote of a possibility in their world...or in ours.
Way does exceptional work here with imagery and phrasing. You feel the heat and the filth and the fear of the characters as the summer moves to its conclusion. The look back with the help of the psychiatrist is effective because you know the ending and who dies...at least you think you know...until the absolute end.
This is a slim volume will stick with you, particularly if you work with young people. We know these kids, and the unspeakable violence is not that remote of a possibility in their world...or in ours.
I agree that the kids at the school are exceptionally well drawn. Even though they're "bad" kids, you feel a great deal of empathy for them.
My only criticism of this book is that it takes awhile to get going. I stayed with it, and I'd recommend that you do, particularly if you like character driven mysteries.
Madeline is an intriguing character; it's easy to understand and relate to her character and want to spend more time with her. I'm looking forward to her next adventure.
My only criticism of this book is that it takes awhile to get going. I stayed with it, and I'd recommend that you do, particularly if you like character driven mysteries.
Madeline is an intriguing character; it's easy to understand and relate to her character and want to spend more time with her. I'm looking forward to her next adventure.