Published: Simon & Schuster (May 4, 2010)
Pages: 344
Source: Borrowed from the library
Short Summary: Amy's life is a mess. Her father is dead, her brother is in rehab and she's pretty sure her mother blames her for everything. Which is why she's left her across the country in California while she goes and starts a new life for them in Connecticut. Amy is finishing up her junior year of high school and living in the empty shell of her childhood home, dealing with the emotions and consequences that have fallen upon her in the last few months. When her mother calls to inform Amy that she's going to drive the car across the country with Roger, a friend's son, Amy's not sure what to expect.
What began as a quick trip to Connecticut ends up being an amazing road trip in which both Roger and Amy deal with past decisions and events, while learning more about themselves and each other.
My thoughts: I loved this book. Both Amy and Roger were great characters--very real and very funny. Matson really worked on making them believable characters. Amy could have quickly become a whiny character and Roger might have been too perfect--but that's not the case. Each have their own set of problems to deal with, but the friendship they create helps both of them grow throughout the story. The cast of supporting character was quirky and cute and I would love to hear more about each one of them. On a side note, Bronwyn is a an awesome name.
The setting was awesome--a trip across America? I'm in. I was excited to see some places I have actually visited, like Colorado Springs and Wichita. In fact, my best friend is from Wichita and I called her to confirm some details :) There are also journal-type entries, like Roger's playlists and Amy's trip diary. I thought it was done tastefully, as it adds to the story without being childish. I also love that Amy loves Broadway show tunes... we could probably be best friends.
At the end of the book I felt satisfied. There were questions left, but life is never tied up in a nice neat bow, so why should Amy and Roger's story end that way?
I think the cover is great, and really captures the spirit of the story. It also kind of gives away the end :(
Rating: 4 stars
I've heard such good things about this one- I can't believe I haven't picked it up yet..will have to do so soon!
ReplyDeleteI definitely want to read this one! So glad you liked it! It's always good to hear that books you are thinking about reading were well liked by others!
ReplyDeleteI've heard so many good things about this book, and, yes, a road trip through America definitely sounds interesting. On a different note, the title reminds me of Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist. :)
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