CONNECTION by Jo Ramsey
March 17, 2010 by Adrian
Filed under Book Reviews
Reviewed by Donna McDine for the National Writing for Children Center
Title: Connection
Written by: Jo Ramsey
Paperback: 182 pages
Publisher: Jupiter Gardens Press / January 2010
ISBN: 978-0-9826023-3-1
Fourteen year-old Shanna Bailey’s life never seems to change for the better. Always the target for school bullies, home is no solace for Shanna because her mother dishes out mental and physical abuse, daily. Shanna’s only escape is in the pages of her daily writings. Resolved to her unhappy life, Shanna dreads the beginning of high school, until the day she meets Jonah Leighton there. The only drawback, Jonah is an outcast himself. Ignoring comments to stay away from Jonah, Shanna finds herself drawn to Jonah and him to her. This shocks Shanna, for she does not feel worthy of anyone’s friendship.
Reluctant at first, what Shanna learns through their new friendship leaves her spellbound. Things begin to make sense to Shanna, her writings and her need for “imaginary” friends. Not imaginary at all, but her spiritual guides. This is where reality and spiritual worlds come together for Shanna.
Together, Shanna and Jonah witness strange behavior from the resident “mean girl”, Kaylie Sturbridge, at their high school. For some this behavior is bizarre, but not to Jonah. With the trust he and Shanna have developed Jonah explains to Shanna the dark forces attempting to penetrate Kaylie and how the two of them may help her. Shanna believes him immediately; however will the duo gain Kaylie’s trust in time?
Come along for this fascinating story of finding one’s self and accepting our differences because they are what make us special.
Visit Jo Ramsey at joramsey.com.
Being an outcast and especially being bullied are such important topics to address for children. It sounds like Jo’s book does just that.
Great review, Donna.
I’m not sure if this will post twice since I just left a comment that doesn’t seem to have appeared.
Great review Donna. Connection sounds like a wonderful book that addresses two important topics children should learn about.
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Great review, Donna. Sounds like this book has all the elements that will draw the reader in, whether teen or older: the mystery of the dark forces, the down-trodden, unexpected bonding and friendship and the underdog as hero. Kudos to the author and compliments to the reviewer.
Bill Kirk
Great review of what looks to be a wonderful and much needed book.
Donna,
What a wonderful review. I feel so very blessed to know so many talented people like yourself. You certainly know your craft very well. I can certainly relate to Shana. I was bullied a lot in school. The kids made fun of me because I had a French accent and could not speak English.
Nicole weaver
http://www.authorsden.com/nicoleweaver
I enjoyed this review and am thankful for books being written to help young people with so many difficulties they are facing today.
I have 2 picture books I am writing and this review makes me want to write for the this genre!
I so appreciate meeting, networking, and learning from this new world I’ve found myself in. Thank-you to all of you who are willing to share with me.
Kathy
Great review. This book sounds like a good one.
This sounds like a great journey. I know that teenagers often face peer pressure and hopefully friends can help them make better choices.
This sounds like it would be an interesting book and journey for teens.
It’s so hard (at least it was for me when I was a kid) not to feel like all of your “flaws” were magnified thousands of times, and everyone.was staring at it. Great review.
Blessings,
J. Aday Kennedy
The Differently-Abled Children’s Author
http://www.jadaykennedy.com
http://jadaykennedy.blogspot.com/
Oh, this book sounds really wonderful. The topic of bullies is definitely making its way into more books these days. This storyline seems like a real winner.
Nice review, looks like a great book. Thanks for sharing.
I might be saying this twice, can’t tell if the comments is working. However, very nice review. The book sounds interesting and one I will put on my reading list. Thanks for sharing.
I’ve just started reading Jo’s book myself. It’s a unique idea. I had never heard of any YA metaphysical fantasies before. Go Jo!
The subject of bullies is a hot topic. You should find a large accepting audience. To capture the education market offer a free pdf on your website with tips on how to handle bullies and lessons and activities.
By the way, I don’t know who illustrated your book cover, but I LUV IT!!!
Great review as always Donna. Bravo.
Blessings,
J. Aday Kennedy
The Differently-Abled Writer
http://www.jadaykennedy.com
http://jadaykennedy.blogspot.com/
Thank you one and all for stopping by today and reading my review and leaving such lovely comments for Jo Ramsey.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Regards,
Donna