Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Review: The Way He Lived by Emily Wing Smith


Book: The Way He Lived by Emily Wing Smith

Genre: YA

Rating: A

For: ongoing local author stalking! :)

Many of you know by now that a few weeks ago, I went to a blogger get-together here in Utah. Very fun. As part of our shindig, we had several authors join us. A few I knew, a few I didn't. Emily Wing Smith was one of the new-to-me authors there that day.

Of course I asked them all, "So... what's your book about?" One said, aliens. One said, a cross between Twilight and the prodigal son (did I get that right? I can't quite remember!) So I looked at Emily and said, "And is your book a variation on the popular paranormal theme too?" She said, "Uh... no." I said, "It's a serious-type book then?" She said, "Quite serious."

Let me just say that this is one of the most serious, deep-subject books I've read in a long time. Wow, there's a lot to think about in this one. You couldn't get farther from the for-fun fantasy fluffiness than this!

The story is told from six teenagers' viewpoints. They are all dealing with the death of their friend/brother/debate partner/almost boyfriend.... each in their own way. It's sad in parts, funny in parts, heart-warming in parts, and heart-wrenching in parts. It's very interesting to see how one person can mean so many different things to the people around him.

Anyway, it's a great book. I totally enjoyed it. But for sure one to read when you are in a deep-thinking mood.

For more about Emily Wing Smith, check out her website and blog.

Here's a fun trailer that gives a little more hint for the feel of this book:




6 comments:

  1. Your description of the plot made me think of Hey Nostradamus! by Douglas Coupland. Have you read this one? I really enjoyed it. It's told from several different view points about a young girl who is shot (including hers.) You should check it out.

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  2. Wonderful review. This is one of my favorite books.

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  3. Your review makes me think I must read this book.

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  4. Wow, what an intriguing post about this book. I want to check out this book...thanks for the recommendation!

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  5. I've been meaning to get this one too, after hearing about it at the social. Now, I've got to move it up the TBR list!

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  6. This sounds excellent! Thanks for the terrific review.

    http://starkravingbibliophile.blogspot.com/

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