Book details
The Beautiful Between
Description
If high school were a fairy-tale kingdom, Connelly Sternin would be Rapunzel, locked not in a tower by a wicked witch but in a high-rise apartment building by the SATs and college applicationsand by the secrets she keeps. Connelly's few friends think that her parents are divorcedbut they're not. Connelly's father died when she was two, and she doesn't know how. If Connelly is the Rapunzel of her school, Jeremy Cole is the crown prince, son of a great and rich New York City family. So when he sits down next to her at lunch one day, Connelly couldn't be more surprised. But Jeremy has a tragic secret of his own, and Connelly is the only one he can turn to for help. Together they form a council of two, helping each other with their homework and sharing secrets. As the pair's friendship grows, Connelly learns that it's the truth, not the secrets, that one must guard and protect. And that between friends, the truth, however harsh, is also beautiful. This lovely and memorable debut by Alyssa B. Sheinmel contains many of the hallmark themes found in young adult literaturefriendship, coming of age, finding a place to belong, and overcoming the death of a loved one. Emotionally moving from start to finish, The Beautiful Between introduces a strong new voice to the genre, a voice with a long future ahead of it.From the Hardcover edition.
Age
12-15
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
192 pages
Why to read
- Exploration of Grief and Healing: 'The Beautiful Between' offers a poignant and sensitive look at the process of dealing with loss and finding ways to heal. Reading this book can provide insight into the complexities of grief and the journey towards acceptance and recovery.
- Relatable Characters: Alyssa B. Sheinmel creates characters that are authentic and relatable, making it easy for readers to connect with their struggles and triumphs. The protagonist's experiences and emotions are portrayed in a way that many readers may find reflective of their own lives.
- Themes of Friendship and Love: The novel delves into the importance of friendship and love in overcoming life's challenges. It highlights how relationships can be a source of strength and support, offering a heartwarming perspective on human connections.
- Beautiful Prose: Sheinmel's writing style is both lyrical and accessible, drawing readers into the story with beautiful descriptions and thoughtful prose. The language used in 'The Beautiful Between' is evocative and adds depth to the narrative, making it a pleasure to read.