Thursday, March 3, 2011

Bookanistas: WHAT HAPPENED TO GOODBYE by Sarah Dessen

What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen: Book CoverPlot without spoilers: In the wake of her parents' divorce, Mclean Sweet follows her dad as his restaurant consulting job takes him from town to town. In each place, she creates a new identity--even takes on a new name. Then she arrives in Lakeview where a failing bistro and some misfit classmates, including the uber-smart Dave Wade, make Mclean reconsider the self she left behind.

Literary highlights: Dessen explores identity at many levels, from the literal naming of her protagonist to the ways in which the people we befriend, follow, share a meal with, love and even abandon speak to who we are.

Finally, just gotta say: This is a fun read for anyone who has ever wished for the opportunity to try on a new, unencumbered identity (and who hasn't had that dream at some point)? It's interesting to watch Mclean sort out which friendships she'll reach for and what activities she'll join at her latest new school. Some of her choices are delightful surprises. A lovely book that lingers in your mind after you reach the last page.

SEE WHAT THE OTHER BOOKANISTAS ARE READING THIS WEEK

Click here to join the Bookanistas Book Club at the Reading Room where you can check out all the books we're buzing about!

Elana Johnson shines a light on Clarity
LiLa Roecker raves over The Rendering
Shannon Messenger loves 13 Reasons Why - with a signed book giveaway!
Shelli Johannes Wells is enjoying the view of Sean Griswold's Head
Scott Tracey is amazed by The Iron Thorn
Kirsten Hubbard raves over these March releases
Michelle Hodkin introduces some marvelous March books
Myra McEntire Invites Kim Harrington Into The Fort
Beth Revis is mad for Matched
Carolina Valdez Miller delights in Delirium
Jessica Kirby adores Across the Universe
Megan Miranda peers into Sean Griswold's Head
Bethany Wiggins marvels at Matched
Shana Silver is a super stop on The Liar Society blog tour
Gretchen McNeil celebrates The Liar Society
Carrie Harris buzzes about Blessed
Rosemare Clement-Moore falls for Falling Under
Katie Anderson shows cover love for Possess
Matt Blackstone is ecstatic over Edges

8 comments:

Lisa_Gibson said...

Sounds like a great read. Love Sarah Dessen.
Lisa ~ YA Literature Lover

Bethany Wiggins said...

Sounds awesome, Louise... er Stasia!

Carolina M. Valdez Schneider said...

I used to wish I could just change who I was--I mean, what kid doesn't it? Few have such opportunity, being stuck where they are. So it sounds like a fun, intriguing book that explores what happens when these opportunities come along! Great review!

Donea Lee said...

Creating a new identity for a day could be nice ~ :) Sounds like a great read. And your cover looks awesome - congrats! New follower and fellow crusader just (finally) making the rounds. Happy Thursday!

Lynda R Young as Elle Cardy said...

I like the premise. Sounds like a fun read.
Lyn
W.I.P. It: A Writer's Journey

Margo Kelly said...

I think Sarah Dessen is a wonderful writer. I've enjoyed several books written by her. Thanks for the review!

Jessi said...

Can't wait for this one!

Shana Silver said...

I'm really intrigued to see how Sarah Dessen handles the theme of identity. Though truthfully I'd be intrigued to see how she handles anything because I LOVE HER BOOKS!!! I'm sure this will be no exception.