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Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead is a book that will definitely appeal to you if enjoy a quick mysterious read. This book is a really engaging middle grade contemporary novel. Its middle school setting is very relatable, well-developed characters and a second-person narrative are the perfect mix for an enjoyable and hard to put down read.
Title: Goodbye StrangerAuthor: Rebecca Stead
Publisher: Wendy Lamb Books
Genres: Contemporary, Middle Grade
Publication Date: August 4, 2015
Rating:
Bridge is an accident survivor who's wondering why she's still alive. Emily has new curves and an almost-boyfriend who wants a certain kind of picture. Tabitha sees through everybody's games--or so she tells the world. The three girls are best friends with one rule: No fighting. Can it get them through seventh grade?This year everything is different for Sherm Russo as he gets to know Bridge Barsamian. What does it mean to fall for a girl--as a friend?On Valentine's Day, an unnamed high school girl struggles with a betrayal. How long can she hide in plain sight?
❃ I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. ❃
Review: Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead
❀ Relatable Descriptions
One of the most entertaining aspects of Goodbye Stranger is its middle school backdrop. Rebecca Stead has provided readers with a very detailed account of the middle school atmosphere that feels so familiar. Right down to the lockers and hallways, the descriptions are so relatable and accurate. I felt as though this was a school that I have attended.
❀ Well-Developed Characters
Goodbye Stranger is riddled with well-developed characters. This is classic Rebecca Stead, as each character in the story is described richly. The physical details of the characters are so descriptive, it is quite easy to picture what the characters look like. One of the main characters, Bridge, decides that she does not want to be called Bridget anymore. She also decides that she wants to wear cat ears every day, which is a bit strange, but defines her personality even more. There is a real explanation behind this, which is a fun component to the book.
❀ Different Perspectives
For the majority, Goodbye Stranger is told in the third person. A unique aspect to the story are the few chapters that are told in second person. Second-person narratives can be a lot of fun in a work of fiction, as it gives the reader a sense of being a part of the story. Rebecca Stead has used second person in a very interesting way, as she is concealing the identity of the mysterious character. Reading this book is kind of like reading two completely different books that slowly merge together.
❀ Does Not Disappoint
Goodbye Stranger by Rebecca Stead did not disappoint. I loved the setting, characters and the use of second person in this book. It is a perfect read for those who enjoy a well written middle grade mystery.
About Rebecca Stead
I love books but don't feel like stars capture what I want to say about them. Many of the books on my list are, in my opinion, amazing. Some I didn't like. But I give them all five stars, because stars make people - including me -- happy. Confused? Me too.
If you want to talk about any book I've read, I'm here.
About The Candid Cover
Olivia ❀ Canadian YA book blogger, Starbucks lover, & professional bibliophile.
This sounds incredibly cute, and I am a huge fan of the cover. I love when there are great middle grade stories!
I always enjoy a quick mysterious read. Love the cover.
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