By Jacquelyn Mitchard
Bridget and Maureen, the best of friends, are practically inseparable. When the two sixteen year old girls, who strangely resemble one another, are in a tragic car accident that leaves one of them dead and the other in a coma both families are left reeling. Maureen’s family mourns the loss of their daughter while Bridget’s family sits by her bedside waiting for her to come out of the coma. Weeks later after dental records confirm that it is, in fact, Maureen that is still alive leaves both families lives in upheaval. As Maureen makes a remarkable recovery she is forced to deal with the aftermath of being the one to survive.
This novel is deep and complex as it not only deals with the horrible tragedy and mistaken identity but the aftermath that follows. Maureen, the survivor, once a pretty, smart, and confident girl is now dealing with physical, mental, social, and academic battles. She desperately misses her best friend, can’t control her thoughts or speech, has to use a cane to help her get around, and is falling in love with her dead best friend’s boyfriend. While Maureen’s family works tirelessly to help rehabilitate Maureen, Bridget’s family is growing bitter and falling apart. The book earns the “YA” label for several reasons including the topic, a few instances of “bad” language, and the relationship between Maureen and Danny which becomes increasingly physical and although it isn’t graphic or explicit it is obvious that their relationship has become sexual. This book is good for mature strong readers 7th grade and up.
This novel is deep and complex as it not only deals with the horrible tragedy and mistaken identity but the aftermath that follows. Maureen, the survivor, once a pretty, smart, and confident girl is now dealing with physical, mental, social, and academic battles. She desperately misses her best friend, can’t control her thoughts or speech, has to use a cane to help her get around, and is falling in love with her dead best friend’s boyfriend. While Maureen’s family works tirelessly to help rehabilitate Maureen, Bridget’s family is growing bitter and falling apart. The book earns the “YA” label for several reasons including the topic, a few instances of “bad” language, and the relationship between Maureen and Danny which becomes increasingly physical and although it isn’t graphic or explicit it is obvious that their relationship has become sexual. This book is good for mature strong readers 7th grade and up.
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