YA Fanatic

Absolutely beautiful. This is a stunning debut novel by Crystal Chan, I really hope she writes more because I loved everything about this book. In a way it reminds me of, Bridge to Terrebithia because the writing is stellar and its a rather hauntingly, sad tale.

Twelve year old Jewel was born the same time her brother Bird died (whose real name is John.) Her entire life has been spent being in the shadows of her brothers death. Her parents rarely pay attention to her and her mother is constantly sad. All Jewel wants is to be noticed and to make her mother happy. Her grandfather hasn't spoken a word since Bird died since its his fault (he came up with the nickname.) Her father is too focused scaring away the duppies (spirits that haunt you and make you do random things). 

Then John comes a long. A boy Jewel befriends and has never seen in Iowa before. Things are changing and John is at the brink of it all.

Each sentence is beautiful and flows exceedingly well. The characters are so strong its heartbreaking to read what this family has been through.

Let's not forget to mention the cover. It's breathtakingly beautiful! And a big part of what drew me too this new book.

Fans of Bridge to Terrebithia will adore this book. For a debut novel, Chan has already proven to be an excellent storyteller with hopefully more to come.