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Friday, September 9, 2016

Just Listen



                                                                                  By Sarah Dessen 

     This is an incredibly powerful and well-crafted story.  Sarah Dessen approaches a current often hidden aspect of life unfortunately for many women.  Anabel appears to have everything that most teens crave, but one night her life crumbles and she did not know how to deal with her new reality.  Left to begin the upcoming school year with no friends and hated by Sophie, she tries to become invisible.  An unlikely friendship with the school's "bad boy", assists Anabel in dealing with her anger and remaining honest with herself and those around her.  
     Not until Anabel is confronted with  her own memories and another victim, and Owen asks for an explanation that she is not ready to give, does Anabel learn to just listen.  Anabel's friendship with Owen is in a shambles and she finally decides to listen to the CD's that he made for her.  Then a confrontation with an old friend forces Anabel to tell Owen the whole truth, all of her secrets. His understanding and encouragement has Anabel calling the detective and telling her family, what happened.  Finally, Anabel has righted her life and discovered that the truth has set her free that and the power of music.  
     I really enjoyed this story but feel that it is very mature in its content.  It is beautifully crafted and the character development is excellent.  I would give this book a 4.5 out of 5 stars and would say it is appropriate for girls in high school.  This was a nice departure for my reading and I would encourage you to read it.  

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