From Publishers Weekly
This "luminous" novel, said PW in a starred review, "offers a delicate yet unflinching look at the shadows that spread over families of schizophrenics.... a story of subtle but real hope." Ages 12-up. (Oct.) r
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 7 Up?In a first-person narrative, 14-year-old Sophy reveals the impact of her 24-year-old sister Nicole's schizophrenia on the lives of those who love her and Nicole's own pain whenever "the whispers" return. During some of these times, the young woman simply disappears?once for three months and most recently for six and a half days. Other times she is hospitalized. Sophy feels powerless to help her. Aunt Shirley, who has raised the girls since their parents died in a car crash, accepts that it is always going to be the way it is and that everyone can only do so much. What her aunt doesn't understand is Sophy's unspoken fear that she will end up like her sister. Unexpectedly, it is Nicole who helps Sophy face her fear and move on towards a promising future. The talented teen also receives support from her elderly neighbor, Miss Onyx, who encourages her to pursue her dream of becoming a dancer. Each of Johnson's characters shows the frailty and strength of the human spirit. There are no easy answers for Sophy and her family. Questions about some of the events and images that the characters evoke and struggle with will remain with readers long after they finish this slim book.
This "luminous" novel, said PW in a starred review, "offers a delicate yet unflinching look at the shadows that spread over families of schizophrenics.... a story of subtle but real hope." Ages 12-up. (Oct.) r
Copyright 1996 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 7 Up?In a first-person narrative, 14-year-old Sophy reveals the impact of her 24-year-old sister Nicole's schizophrenia on the lives of those who love her and Nicole's own pain whenever "the whispers" return. During some of these times, the young woman simply disappears?once for three months and most recently for six and a half days. Other times she is hospitalized. Sophy feels powerless to help her. Aunt Shirley, who has raised the girls since their parents died in a car crash, accepts that it is always going to be the way it is and that everyone can only do so much. What her aunt doesn't understand is Sophy's unspoken fear that she will end up like her sister. Unexpectedly, it is Nicole who helps Sophy face her fear and move on towards a promising future. The talented teen also receives support from her elderly neighbor, Miss Onyx, who encourages her to pursue her dream of becoming a dancer. Each of Johnson's characters shows the frailty and strength of the human spirit. There are no easy answers for Sophy and her family. Questions about some of the events and images that the characters evoke and struggle with will remain with readers long after they finish this slim book.
