Friday, October 22, 2010

Book Review: The Everafter


What a fascinating read! Amy Huntley's book, The Everafter, held me from beginning to end, even though the beginning was so odd and surreal. Madison Stanton is dead. She doesn't have a body. She doesn't remember who she was when living and she doesn't know how or when she died. She is in a dark void, surrounded by glowing objects that turn out to be items she had lost in life. When she discovers that by interacting with the objects she can return to her life, she begins putting together the pieces that led to her present state.

When I went to Amy Huntley's website, I discovered a paragraph that leads me to believe she is a kindred soul:

"On any given day you can find me book hopping between children's books and 19th Century British literature. Or between a great young adult novel and an adult spy thriller. A teacher of 18 years, I use my career as an excuse to read 100 or more books a year. After all, I'm just trying to put the 'right book in the right student's hands.'"

Even if we didn't share similar passions, she is an author I would recommend. I hope we'll be seeing more from this author who is definitely connected to the heart and voice of young people.

4 comments:

cardiogirl said...

I just checked online and my library has access to this book -- yay! -- so I was able to place a hold on it. I'll have to let you know what I thought once I read it.

I like the premise of the story and will be interested in finding out what happened to her.

Amy Sorensen said...

I liked this one, too! I didn't check out the author, though, and you are right: she does sound like a kindred spirit!

cardiogirl said...

I just finished reading this -- what a great story! I started it yesterday and finished this morning while making pancakes for my kids. (Burned a few because I got involved in the story.)

I thought there was something fishy with Mrs. Simpson when she has having her ulcer looked at. But I did not expect the ending.

Fast read, engrossing story. I also liked the way the loose ends were tied up at the end.

Two thumbs up.

Wendy Hill said...

CG - Thanks for letting me know that you read the book and liked it. This is the first time I've ever heard back from someone who has taken a book suggestion and then read the book. So glad you enjoyed it.