Stephanie S. reviewed on + 169 more book reviews
As a fan of YA fiction, this book was an utter disappointment to me. In fact, I feel gypped by it. Here's the opening line: "I saw him go down. I saw him slip and fall. I could see it from where I was watching." And also at the start: "That's how it happened. I think about it. It replays in my memory. In my mind....Like a record..."
So, from that introduction I assumed (never assume, right?) the narrator, Andy, was recounting the story of having actually witnessed some tragic scene. And I, the reader, was filled with anticipation to turn the pages and learn what had actually happened. A great start...
But...hmmm. After building anticipation to the "event"....(without a spoiler alert here, I cannot be more specific)...but the narrator admits he actually saw "nothing". He, like everyone else at camp was mystified and confused by the occurance, and wanted answers. So it's at this moment in the story that for me the book's hook (the opening lines) just didn't make sense. As a reader I became annoyed, frustrated and let down. And I no forgive.
*1/2 One and a half stars (and I'm in a generous mood).
So, from that introduction I assumed (never assume, right?) the narrator, Andy, was recounting the story of having actually witnessed some tragic scene. And I, the reader, was filled with anticipation to turn the pages and learn what had actually happened. A great start...
But...hmmm. After building anticipation to the "event"....(without a spoiler alert here, I cannot be more specific)...but the narrator admits he actually saw "nothing". He, like everyone else at camp was mystified and confused by the occurance, and wanted answers. So it's at this moment in the story that for me the book's hook (the opening lines) just didn't make sense. As a reader I became annoyed, frustrated and let down. And I no forgive.
*1/2 One and a half stars (and I'm in a generous mood).
