Reading is definitely one of my favorite hobbies. I especially love reading books that are outside my comfort zone. A nice, quick read is always a fun way to start the new year, so this January I read Speed of Life by Carol Weston. While this book is more geared towards teens and pre-teens, I still enjoyed reading it.
Author Carol Weston has written the ‘Dear Carol’ advice column for Girls’ Life since the ’90s, and uses this experience to craft this novel. The book centers around 14-year-old Sofia, who is working through the grief of losing her mom. She starts confiding with advice columnist ‘Dear Kate’ via e-mail only to find out that Kate, the woman behind the column, has started to date her dad! The book takes you through the frenzied mind of a teenage girl who has to deal with changing schools, dating, loss and, ultimately, starting over.
What starts off as a sad book turns into a charming, realistic, coming of age novel that allows you to watch the characters grow into themselves and discover the joys of life. It’s also a great reminder for readers of every age to show extra compassion to friends and family who are grieving, whether it’s been a week or a year.
Weston certainly understands teenage girls and I think a lot of young teens will relate to this book and find solace in someone ‘getting it.’
Twisted Talk: What are your favorite kind of books to read? Discuss below!
