Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Dylana

This was one of the best books I've read this year. Its so realistic, emotional, complex, and fun. Its perfect for young girls who are growing up, especially without a mother. It also has underlying images about the world around us, like the river, that add beautiful details to the story.
It is about a young girl named Gabby. She lives with her brother and father, Her mother died when she was 3, and she has no memories of her, but she likes to think she does. She takes notes on what she sees other women doing, so she knows how to act when she finally becomes a woman. Then her dad plans to marry Cleo, and Gabby is so happy. Life is starting to look good, until Cleo suddenly leaves saying she's not ready to be a mother. Gabby feels like this is her fault.
But Gabby does make a very great friend at school, Taylor. They share inside jokes and are as close as ever. Taylor can read Gabby's thoughts really well. You'll love these characters. Gabby still feels something is missing from her life though, and she goes on a journey to New York City with her brother to the apartment they last saw thier mother in when she died. But surprises turn up.
This book is very gripping and written beautifully. I loved it! In the end, Gabby's whole family comes together and new good changes are on there way. You'll learn a lot about the difficulties of growing up and about accepting what is real in life. I know you'll enjoy this novel.