Book Reviews

review; between the lines

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Between The Lines
by Jodi Picoult & Samantha Van Leer

Delilah, a loner hates school as much as she loves books— one book in particular. In fact if anyone knew how many times she has read and reread the sweet little fairy tale she found in the library, especially her cooler than cool classmates, she’d be sent to social Siberia forever.To Delilah, though, this fairy tale is more than just words on the page. Sure, there’s a handsome (well, okay, incredibly handsome) prince, and a castle, and an evil villain, but it feels as if there’s something deeper going on. And one day, Delilah finds out there is. Turns out, this Prince Charming is not just a one-dimensional character in a book. He’s real, and a certain fifteen-year-old loner has caught his eye. But they’re from two different worlds, and how can it ever possibly work?

Review:

The concept of the novel is, in a word, fascinating. After all, who among readers of all ages has not fallen in love with a character along the way? Who has not wanted to step into the pages of the book and speak with the characters?

I will admit, the writing seemed a little more – kiddish, is the word I would use? – than Jodi’s usual style, but it suits the story. Especially considering the ages of the characters and that Delilah is reading what is essentially a children’s fairytale. And considering the co-author is Jodi’s teenage daughter. It was simplistic in it’s approach, but also a well-crafted world with well-crafted characters. And very – almost saccharinely – sweet.

The ending does give me a few questions. While Delilah and Oliver are developed well, and get their happily ever afters, what happens to the other characters? What does the author of the fairytale think when she sends Delilah home, because there will be a change. How does she react and deal with ‘Edgar’s’ new nature? How does Delilah’s mother react to things? What happens with Jules’ – does Delilah tell her the truth? Do things change for Delilah at school? Does she bring her new boyfriend and show the world that she is more than they think she is? Because I needed that closure, and I never got it. It made me sad.

Other than that, it was a decent story, and I would definitely go back and read it again someday.

I’m Ara, a Southeast Asian writer who someday hopes to have published a novel, and who is currently losing herself in the worlds created by others. I love books and food and television and blogging and I get distracted and sidetracked easily.

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