Our Review:
Ginny (Virginia) Blackstone is a post-high school student applying for college. Guided by her deceased Aunt Peg’s letters, last year she travelled across Europe. Her escapade brought money and friendships, but just before she opened the last letter her backpack containing the last envelope was stolen. The adventure was over, until now…
A young English man named Oliver claims he has the last envelope and if she comes to England, they can carry out the instructions together. Seeing this as an opportunity to surprise her “kind of something” boyfriend Keith, and throwing caution to the wind, she goes ‘carpe diem’ once more.
This book provides a wonderful tension between the two young men in her life- her protective, but somehow changed Keith and distanced, collected Oliver- they take a disliking to each other instantly. While she travels, she must balance their relationships before Keith’s spite goes too far…
I found this book a great light summer read. The vocabulary is quite basic, however the dialogue is refreshingly normal and not ‘put on’.
I think many will enjoy this book- although it may not be popular with S3+ teachers for reviewing as the level of reading isn’t that high- nor do I think it would appeal to male audiences. For a similar book, a mixed audience may enjoy the 39 Clues series.
Reviewed by Morna J Holmes,
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