Title: Family
Author: Micol Ostow
ISBN: 9781606841556
Source: Free ARC
I don't care for the free verse poetry style of this story, but read it anyway. I can see how it could appeal to high school students who want thick books with a great deal of "white space." This is the story of Melinda who leaves an unhappy home life. She meets up with Henry who invites her to join his family. Melinda reveals the circumstances that lead her into this cult-like lifestyle that culminates in robbery and murder. For those old enough to remember, it will spark flashbacks to the Charles Manson murders. The first person account shows how a seemingly normal girl could find herself in this situation. Adult readers will anticipate what is coming and want to warn Melissa that Henry is not the solution to her problems.
I don't think it's right that you want to mass generalize all high school students as wanting to read thick books with lots of white space. I'm a sophomore and I've been reading nonstop for years. I am one to gravitate towards books with substance, meaning, or for a history lesson (The Manson Family murders) and I know friends of mine that are hooked on the book too. So watch out with the stereotypes.
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