The writing here is tremendous. But, my biggest problem was that I simply could not find one likeable character – except perhaps the father – in this story. The story would have worked better for me if I had been able to feel some sort of attachment to Frederica, but I thought she deserved the crappy treatment she got from people. Other than that, the story was great, and freshingly original.

I liked the story idea behind this, even though the writing was a bit clunky. Actually, it was the dialogue that bothered me, especially between Jeff and his parents – not realistic sounding at all. And, it’s funny, some of the catch phrases were definitely dated, but I found them to be even older than the 80s! But, with a bit of updating, this would be a perfectly acceptable book for today’s teens. The story is a good one, and one that could definitely spark a great book talk.

This is an amazing, and absolutely heartwrenching, piece of work. I read it in two sittings because I just HAD to know how it all turns out. I was reminded of The Beans of Egypt Maine throughout, though there are enough differences that they really are only alike in that they deal with extreme poverty and clans. Heart breaking.

I really wanted to like this, but I just didn’t get that into it. I have had the same feelings about Block’s other books, so I guess I’m just not a fan. What’s funny is that I think people compare her to Alice Hoffman – whom I LOVE – because they both deal with the “magical” aspects of stories. But, I don’t know, they seem very different to me.

I took it from the library, but then had to buy myself a copy. An EXCELLENT reference tool if you code by hand. Straightforward enough for most beginners, and useful enough for the more advanced.

Nice enough story. I think 16 year-old girls will like it. I never find the “sex” aspects of these books at all like my real life at that age…

...what Rhia said!

I am never disappointed in her novels, and this was no exception. I think she is one of the best writers of REALISTIC DIALOGUE out there. Her stories run the gamut, but always deal with love in some capacity. The story here was SLIGHTLY reminiscent of The Secret Lives of Bees, but I liked this even better. I bought this charming story for my YA collection at the library.

about the lives (and loves)of “older” folks; I just love this author and this little series.

I thought this was a very interesting, and not “like all the other” YA books on eating disorders out there. I was, however, disappointed that it wrapped up all so suddenly and a little too neatly.